Recurrent Myoclonus

What is it?

Myoclonus is a motoric symptom characterized by a sudden muscle spasm. The movement is involuntary and can’t be stopped or controlled. Myoclonus can involve one muscle or a group of muscles. The movements may occur in a pattern or randomly. Myoclonus can range from mild to severe and may occur rarely or often. Myoclonus may develop on its own, but usually is a symptom of an underlying disorder. It may be caused due to infection, stroke, traumatic brain injury, brain or spinal cord tumor, kidney or liver failure, metabolic disorders, hypoxia, and autoimmune disorders. Myoclonus also is a symptom of numerous neurological disorders such as epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, Lewy body dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Creutzfeldrtz-Jakov disease, multiple system atrophy, and frontotemporal dementia. There are many types of myoclonus, they are typically described according to the underlying causes or where the symptoms originate. Treating the underlying cause will help control myoclonus. If the cause of myoclonus is unknown or can't be specifically treated, then treatment focuses on myoclonus symptoms. The symptomatic treatment includes sedative or anticonvulsant medication to help reduce spasms.