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Propriospinal myoclonus: is it always psychogenic?
Rajesh Verma1, Heramba Narayan Praharaj, Tushar Premraj Raut
1Department of Neurology, King George Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. drrajeshverma32@yahoo.com
BMJ Case Reports
|August 1, 2013
Summary
Propriospinal myoclonus (PSM) causes jerks that worsen when lying down. This case study illuminates the disorder's origins, diagnostic challenges, and treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Movement Disorders
Background:
- Propriospinal myoclonus (PSM) is a rare neurological condition characterized by involuntary muscle jerks.
- These myoclonic jerks typically intensify or appear when the patient is in a supine position.
Observation:
- The movements originate from a generator in the thoracic or abdominal region.
- Propagated rostrocaudally, the jerks follow spinospinal conduction velocity.
Findings:
- Routine neuroimaging and electrophysiological tests are often normal in PSM cases.
- This diagnostic normality frequently leads to misinterpretation as psychogenic movement disorder.
Implications:
- Understanding PSM pathophysiology is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management.
- This case highlights the diagnostic dilemmas and treatment challenges associated with PSM.
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