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Published on: November 21, 2013
Familial psychogenic movement disorders
Maria Stamelou1, Giovanni Cossu, Mark J Edwards
1Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders, University College London Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom; Department of Neurology, University of Athens, Attiko Hospital, Athens, Greece; Neurology Clinic, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany.
Background:
Psychogenic (or functional) movement disorders (PMDs) are considered sporadic. Despite the growing literature describing the clinical features and the natural history of sporadic cases with PMDs, their occurrence in familial clusters is not reported.
Methods:
We identified 10 patients from 5 families affected by PMDs. In this report, we describe the clinical characteristics along with videos and long-term follow-up of these patients.
Results:
Clinical clues from the history and signs suggesting a functional origin of the symptoms in these patients with familial PMD were similar to those identified in sporadic cases. The phenomenology of the PMD was similar in the affected members of the same family.
Conclusions:
We wish to highlight that a positive family history does not necessarily imply an organic disorder. When a positive family history for a condition is reported by a patient with PMD, examination of these further affected members may be needed and may identify further family members suffering from PMDs. A positive family history of PMDs may be an additional risk factor for developing PMDs. © 2013 Movement Disorder Society.
Insights
Psychogenic (or functional) movement disorders (PMDs) can occur in families. A positive family history of PMDs may indicate a higher risk and warrants further investigation of affected relatives.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Movement Disorders
Background:
- Psychogenic (or functional) movement disorders (PMDs) are typically considered sporadic.
- Limited research exists on familial clusters of PMDs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence and characteristics of PMDs within families.
- To determine if a family history influences the risk or presentation of PMDs.
Main Methods:
- Identified 10 patients from 5 families with PMDs.
- Described clinical characteristics, including videos and long-term follow-up.
Main Results:
- Familial PMDs share clinical clues with sporadic cases.
- Affected family members exhibited similar PMD phenomenology.
- Phenomenology of PMDs was consistent within families.
Conclusions:
- A positive family history does not exclude functional disorders.
- Investigating family members is crucial when PMDs are suspected.
- Family history of PMDs may be an independent risk factor.
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