Which neurological disorder is primarily characterized by sustained involuntary muscle contractions causing abnormal postures or repetitive movements?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option A
- The neurological disorder primarily characterized by sustained involuntary muscle contractions that cause abnormal postures or repetitive movements is Dystonia.
- In dystonia, these involuntary muscle contractions can be focal, segmental, or generalized, leading to twisting and sometimes painful movements or abnormal posturing of affected body parts.
- These contractions are typically sustained or may occur in patterned spasms, which distinguishes dystonia from other movement disorders.
By contrast:
- Myoclonus involves sudden, brief, shock-like jerks caused by muscle contractions or inhibitions.
- Chorea features irregular, unpredictable, and flowing movements that are not sustained.
- Tremor is characterized by rhythmic oscillatory movements, usually alternating contractions of opposing muscle groups.
Therefore, the hallmark of dystonia is the sustained involuntary contractions leading to abnormal postures or repetitive, patterned movements.
Reference: Adams and Victor’s Principles of Neurology, 11th Edition, Volume 2, Movement Disorders Chapter/Page 1123-1127
- In dystonia, these involuntary muscle contractions can be focal, segmental, or generalized, leading to twisting and sometimes painful movements or abnormal posturing of affected body parts.
- These contractions are typically sustained or may occur in patterned spasms, which distinguishes dystonia from other movement disorders.
By contrast:
- Myoclonus involves sudden, brief, shock-like jerks caused by muscle contractions or inhibitions.
- Chorea features irregular, unpredictable, and flowing movements that are not sustained.
- Tremor is characterized by rhythmic oscillatory movements, usually alternating contractions of opposing muscle groups.
Therefore, the hallmark of dystonia is the sustained involuntary contractions leading to abnormal postures or repetitive, patterned movements.
Reference: Adams and Victor’s Principles of Neurology, 11th Edition, Volume 2, Movement Disorders Chapter/Page 1123-1127
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