Opsoclonus Myoclonus Information Page
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What is Opsoclonus Myoclonus?
Is there any treatment?
What is the prognosis?
Is there Research Being Done?
What is Opsoclonus Myoclonus?
Opsoclonus myoclonus is a rare neurological disorder characterized by unsteady gait, intention tremor (rhythmic, involuntary motions of the limbs during voluntary movements), myoclonus (brief, shock-like muscle spasms), and opsoclonus (irregular, rapid, horizontal and vertical eye movements). Other symptoms may include dysphasia (difficulty speaking), dysarthria (poorly articulated speech), mutism (inability to speak), hypotonia (decreased muscle tone), lethargy, irritability, or malaise (a vague feeling of bodily discomfort). Opsoclonus myoclonus may occur in association with tumors or viral infections.
Is there any treatment?
Treatment for opsoclonus myoclonus may include corticosteroids or ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone). In cases where there is a tumor present, treatment such as chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation may be required.
What is the prognosis?
The prognosis for opsoclonus myoclonus varies depending on the symptoms and the presence and treatment of tumors. With treatment of the underlying cause of the disorder, there may be an improvement of symptoms. Spontaneous remissions (unexplained lack of disease activity) may also occur. usually the disorder is not fatal.
Is there Research Being Done?
Current research is attempting to clarify and expand the knowledge about movement disorders, and to find ways to prevent and treat these disorders.
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