dystonia
Pronunciation: dis-TOE-nee-ah
A neurological movement disorder causing involuntary muscle contractions that result in twisting, repetitive movements or abnormal postures.
Full Definition
Dystonia is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, sustained muscle contractions that cause twisting and repetitive movements or abnormal postures. In psychiatric settings, dystonia most commonly occurs as an acute extrapyramidal side effect of antipsychotic medications, particularly typical antipsychotics. Acute dystonic reactions typically develop within hours to days of medication initiation or dose increases and can affect various muscle groups including the neck (torticollis), jaw (trismus), tongue, or eyes (oculogyric crisis). These reactions can be frightening and painful for patients and require immediate treatment with anticholinergic medications such as benztropine or diphenhydramine. Dystonia can also be a primary neurological condition unrelated to medication exposure. Recognition and rapid treatment of medication-induced dystonia is crucial for patient safety and to prevent treatment discontinuation.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the type of dystonia (e.g., cervical, oculogyric) and timeframe in relation to medication changes.
In Context
- "The patient developed acute cervical dystonia six hours after receiving haloperidol injection." — Emergency department note
- "Prophylactic anticholinergic medication was prescribed to prevent dystonia in high-risk patients." — Medication management plan