dystonia
Pronunciation: dis-TOE-nee-ah
A movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions causing twisting movements and abnormal postures.
Full Definition
Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder characterized by sustained or intermittent involuntary muscle contractions that cause twisting, repetitive movements, and abnormal postures. In children, dystonia can be focal (affecting one body region), segmental (affecting adjacent regions), multifocal (affecting non-adjacent regions), or generalized (affecting most of the body). Dystonic movements are often triggered or worsened by voluntary movement and may improve with sensory tricks (geste antagoniste). Pediatric dystonia can be primary (genetic) or secondary to brain injury, medications, or metabolic disorders. Early-onset dystonia often begins in the feet and may progress to involve other body parts. Treatment options include oral medications, botulinum toxin injections, and deep brain stimulation.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from spasticity (velocity-dependent) and chorea (dance-like movements).
In Context
- "The teenager's focal dystonia caused involuntary neck rotation that improved with botulinum toxin treatment." — Treatment documentation
- "Genetic testing revealed a DYT1 mutation explaining the child's early-onset generalized dystonia." — Diagnostic workup