Dyssynergia Cerebellaris Myoclonica

Formerly known as Ramsay Hunt Syndrome I, dyssynergia cerebellaris myoclonica refers to a collection of rare, degenerative neurological disorders. These disorders are characterized by cognitive impairment, epilepsy, myoclonus, and progressive ataxia. Symptoms associated with dyssynergia cerebellaris myoclonica include seizures, tremor, and reduced muscle coordination. Treatment options vary depending on the symptoms of the disorder.

 

What Is Dyssynergia Cerebellaris Myoclonica?

Dyssynergia cerebellaris myoclonica (formerly known as Ramsay Hunt Syndrome I) refers to a collection of rare, degenerative neurological disorders characterized by epilepsy, cognitive impairment, myoclonus (a sudden, involuntary jerking of a muscle or group of muscles), and progressive ataxia (clumsiness).
 

Symptoms of Dyssynergia Cerebellaris Myoclonica

Dyssynergia cerebellaris myoclonica symptoms include:
 
  • Seizures
  • Tremor
  • Reduced muscle coordination.
     
Usually the onset of dyssynergia cerebellaris myoclonica occurs in early adulthood. The tremor often seen in people with this illness may begin in one extremity and later spread to involve the entire voluntary muscular system. Arms are usually more affected than legs. Some of the cases are due to mitochondrial abnormalities.
 

Treatment of Dyssynergia Cerebellaris Myoclonica

Treatment of dyssynergia cerebellaris myoclonica is symptomatic. Myoclonus and seizures may be treated with drugs such as valproate.
 

Dyssynergia Cerebellaris Myoclonica: Prognosis

The progression of dyssynergia cerebellaris myoclonica is usually 10 years or longer.
 
(Dyssynergia Cerebellaris Myoclonica Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD