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Spasmodic torticollis and phobic neurosis
1Department of Psychiatry, Montreal General Hospital, Que., Canada.
Neuropsychobiology
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Psychopathology is common in spasmodic torticollis (ST). This study found phobias in two ST patients, which were treated successfully without affecting ST, suggesting psychopathology isn't always causally linked to ST.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Psychopathology is frequently observed in patients diagnosed with spasmodic torticollis (ST).
- The relationship between psychopathology and the etiology of ST remains incompletely understood.
Observation:
- This report details two cases of ST patients presenting with coexisting phobic neurosis.
- In one patient, the phobic neurosis developed independently of ST.
- In the second patient, the phobia was linked to essential tremor, a potential precursor to ST.
Findings:
- Both patients' phobias were effectively resolved using paradoxical intention therapy.
- The successful treatment of the phobias did not result in any modification of the spasmodic torticollis symptoms.
Implications:
- These findings suggest that while psychopathology can co-occur with ST, it may not always be a direct cause.
- Clinicians should exercise caution when attributing the development of ST to comorbid psychological conditions.
- Paradoxical intention may be a viable treatment for phobias in ST patients, independent of ST management.