What Are The Types Of Dystonia?

Myoclonus Dystonia

Myoclonus dystonia is a rare form of dystonia that causes fast, involuntary jerking movements. The condition usually affects the neck, torso, arms, and hands. Patients typically begin to display symptoms in childhood or adolescence, and the jerky movements tend to remain the same throughout life; they do not get progressively worse. Patients with this form of dystonia are at an increased risk of mental health problems such as depression, anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Mutations in a gene known as SGCE are believed to cause thirty to fifty percent of all cases of this form of dystonia. Anticonvulsants and anticholinergic medications are helpful for many patients with this condition, and botulinum toxin injections are particularly effective for reducing neck spasms. Deep brain stimulation may be recommended for severe symptoms. Myoclonus dystonia patients often benefit from professional psychological support from a mental health specialist, and some patients also choose to take antidepressants. In cases where a patient's myoclonus dystonia has been linked to a genetic issue, it is advisable to speak with a genetic counselor too.

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