The Spectrum of Repetitive Behaviors Associated With Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis

Repetitive behaviors refer to a broad class of responses ranging from stereotypic body movements to impulsive/compulsive behaviors. They may be associated with neurological disorders.

This is a case series of six subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) patients who presented with a wide spectrum of repetitive motor behaviors and vocalizations.

Repetitive motor behaviors involved the upper limbs in all patients and lower limbs in 3 patients. The repetitive movements in the upper limbs were clapping, finger-clicking, hand rubbing, flailing, and dystonic posturing. In the lower limbs, the repetitive movements were rubbing with the heel, pelvic thrusting with flexion extension of the leg, and foot tapping. The spectrum of vocalizations included palilalia, whistling, grunting with spitting, and pathological crying. Repetitive behaviors were the presenting features in 2 patients.

This case series expands the spectrum of repetitive behaviors seen in neurological disorders associated with brain infections. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.