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[Myokimia induced by gold salts]
J A Garrido1, M V Torres-Pardo, D Sola
1Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Virgen de la Salud, Toledo.
Neurologia (Barcelona, Spain)
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Gold salts, used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, can cause myokymia, a condition of involuntary muscle contractions. This rare neurological side effect highlights the importance of monitoring patients for adverse effects during gold therapy.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder.
- Gold salts have been used historically for rheumatoid arthritis treatment.
- Neurological complications from gold therapy are infrequent but recognized.
Observation:
- A 44-year-old male patient with rheumatoid arthritis developed myokymias.
- Myokymia manifested as involuntary, repetitive muscle fiber contractions.
- The condition presented with an undulating skin appearance and lasted a few seconds.
Findings:
- Electromyography confirmed myokymic discharges, differentiating it from fasciculations.
- Myokymia is a rare neurological complication associated with gold salt treatment.
- Other potential gold-associated neurological issues include peripheral neuropathy and encephalopathy.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of myokymia as a potential adverse effect of gold salts.
- Monitoring for neurological symptoms is crucial in patients treated with gold salts.
- This case adds to the understanding of gold-induced neurological complications.