Physiologic and pathologic tremors. Diagnosis, mechanism, and management

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Movement Disorders

Background:

• Tremor is the most common involuntary movement disorder.
• Characterized by rhythmic oscillations during rest or activity, ceasing during sleep.
• Physiologic tremor is normal; pathologic tremor impairs function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review basic mechanisms and clinical features of various tremors.
• To emphasize recent advances in tremor pathophysiology and management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of tremor mechanisms.
• Clinical classification of pathologic tremors (accentuated physiologic, parkinsonian, essential, cerebellar).

Main Results:

• Tremors are classified clinically into four main types.
• Understanding basic mechanisms aids in diagnosis and management.

Conclusions:

• Pathologic tremors require clinical attention when function is impaired.
• Advances in pathophysiology and management offer new therapeutic avenues.