Postanoxic myoclonus. Treatment of a case with 5-hydroxytryptophane and a decarboxylase inhibitor

Postanoxic myoclonus was first accepted as being related to a dysfunction of the ventrolateral thalamic nucleus. Several stereotaxic studies have invalidated this hypothesis. The neurochemical approach, in particular the measure of 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid in the cerebrospinal fluid, has opened new theoretical and therapeutic possibilities involving serotoninergic pathways. A typical case is presented who improved markedly under a combined therapy with 5-hydroxytryptophan and a decarboxylase inhibitor. A review of the pathogenesis and therapeutic approach to postanoxic myoclonus is presented.