myoclonus
Pronunciation: MY-oh-kloh-nus
Sudden, brief, involuntary muscle jerks that can occur in various neurological conditions.
Full Definition
Myoclonus refers to sudden, brief, shock-like involuntary muscle contractions that can affect single muscles or groups of muscles. These movements can be positive (muscle contraction) or negative (brief loss of muscle tone, called asterixis). Myoclonus can be physiological (normal, such as hiccups or hypnic jerks), essential (benign but persistent), or symptomatic of underlying neurological disorders including epilepsy, metabolic encephalopathies, neurodegenerative diseases, or medication toxicity. In clinical practice, myoclonus is classified by its anatomical distribution (focal, multifocal, or generalized), relationship to voluntary movement, and underlying etiology to guide appropriate treatment.
Usage
Usage note: Specify type (positive/negative) and distribution (focal/multifocal/generalized) for clinical accuracy.
In Context
- "The patient experienced stimulus-sensitive myoclonus triggered by sudden sounds and touch." — movement disorder evaluation
- "Post-anoxic myoclonus developed after the cardiac arrest, indicating poor neurological prognosis." — ICU consultation note