neuromyotonia
Pronunciation: new-roh-my-oh-TOH-nee-ah
Continuous muscle contractions due to peripheral nerve hyperexcitability, often associated with voltage-gated potassium channel antibodies.
Full Definition
Neuromyotonia is characterized by continuous, involuntary muscle contractions resulting from peripheral nerve hyperexcitability, typically affecting distal muscles and producing stiffness, cramping, and visible muscle rippling. The condition is often associated with antibodies against voltage-gated potassium channels, particularly in acquired neuromyotonia or Morvan syndrome. Electromyographically, neuromyotonia displays characteristic high-frequency discharges that persist even during sleep or anesthesia. The condition may be hereditary, acquired (autoimmune), or associated with malignancy as a paraneoplastic syndrome.
Usage
Usage note: Also known as Isaac syndrome; distinguish from myokymia by continuous high-frequency activity.
In Context
- "Neuromyotonia was diagnosed based on characteristic high-frequency discharges persisting during general anesthesia." — Electrodiagnostic study
- "Voltage-gated potassium channel antibodies confirmed autoimmune neuromyotonia in this patient." — Laboratory report