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Professional Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

tardive dyskinesia

Pronunciation: TAR-div dis-ki-NEE-zee-ah

Also written as: TD — tardive dyskinesia

A movement disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements that may develop as a side effect of long-term antipsychotic medication use.

Full Definition

Tardive dyskinesia is a potentially irreversible movement disorder that can occur as a consequence of prolonged treatment with dopamine receptor blocking agents, particularly antipsychotic medications. The condition is characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements typically affecting the face, lips, tongue, trunk, and extremities. Common manifestations include lip smacking, tongue protrusion, facial grimacing, and choreiform movements of the limbs. In neurorehabilitation settings, this condition may complicate treatment planning and functional outcomes. The condition typically appears after months or years of antipsychotic treatment and may persist even after medication discontinuation. Prevention through careful medication management and monitoring is crucial, and treatment options include medication adjustment, switching to atypical antipsychotics, or specific medications for tardive dyskinesia.

Usage

Usage note: Always specify medication-induced nature; distinguish from other movement disorders in documentation.

In Context

  • "The patient developed tardive dyskinesia after five years of haloperidol treatment, requiring medication review and movement disorder consultation." — Medical consultation note

Also known as

TD

Don't confuse with

dystonia chorea medication-induced parkinsonism

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