[Paramyoclonus multiplex (Friedreich's disease)]

The authors describe a case of benign myoclonic jerks in a man aged 45 years, followed-up during 3 years. The disease had a benign course and a tendency was observed for decreasing intensity of symptoms. Apart from disseminated myoclonic jerks and longer lasting muscle spasms no other neurological abnormalities were found. EMG demonstrated spontaneous and asynchronous discharges of groups of motor units corresponding to the observed myoaclonic jerks but no other pathological findings were elicited. Other laboratory investigations including CT of the brain gave normal results. Taking into account the onset and course of the disease, the objective state and the results of laboratory investigations a functional background of the disease could not be ruled out.