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Dopamine agonists suppress visual-cortical reflex myoclonus
Abstract:
Two patients with a diagnosis of olivo-ponto-cerebellar atrophy developed cortical reflex myoclonus to visual (flash) and somaesthetic stimuli. Oral treatment with levodopacarbidopa (1000/100 mg) or subcutaneous administration of apomorphine (1 mg) abolished the visually-triggered myoclonus, without modifying reflex myoclonus to electrical or tactile stimulation. Intravenous administration of lisuride (0.1 mg) produced a marked reduction in both types of reflex myoclonus. These results indicate a selective inhibitory effect of dopamine agonist drugs on visual reflex myoclonus of cortical origin.
Insights
Dopamine agonist drugs selectively reduced visual reflex myoclonus in patients with olivo-ponto-cerebellar atrophy. Levodopa-carbidopa and apomorphine targeted visual stimuli, while lisuride reduced both visual and somaesthetic reflex myoclonus.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Olivo-ponto-cerebellar atrophy (OPCA) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder.
- Cortical reflex myoclonus can manifest in patients with OPCA, triggered by visual or somatosensory stimuli.
- Understanding the neurochemical basis of myoclonus in OPCA is crucial for developing effective treatments.