chorea
Pronunciation: ko-REE-ah
Involuntary, irregular, flowing movements that appear to dance from one body part to another.
Full Definition
Chorea is a hyperkinetic movement disorder characterised by brief, irregular, unpredictable, and non-repetitive movements that flow randomly from one body part to another. The movements appear dance-like and can affect any part of the body, including the face, limbs, and trunk. Chorea results from dysfunction in the basal ganglia circuits, particularly involving the caudate nucleus and putamen. Common causes include Huntington's disease, Sydenham's chorea, and drug-induced choreiform movements. The movements typically worsen with stress and disappear during sleep.
Usage
Usage note: Often used with qualifying terms (e.g., Huntington's chorea, drug-induced chorea) to specify aetiology.
In Context
- "The patient exhibited chorea affecting primarily the upper extremities and facial muscles." — Movement disorder clinic notes
- "Huntington's chorea typically begins with subtle movements that gradually worsen over time." — Genetic counselling documentation