Dystonia

Definition

Dystonia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions causing repetitive movements or abnormal postures. It can be a symptom of various neurological conditions, including Parkinson's Disease.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dystonia can be focal, affecting one part of the body, or generalized, affecting multiple muscle groups.
2. Parkinson’s disease patients may develop dystonia as a side effect of dopaminergic medications.
3. Antipsychotic drugs, particularly first-generation, can induce dystonia as an extrapyramidal side effect.
4. Botulinum toxin injections are commonly used to treat dystonia by reducing muscle hyperactivity.
5. Management often includes anticholinergic drugs which help reduce symptoms by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain.

Review Questions

• What types of movements are characteristic of dystonia?
• How can Parkinson’s disease treatments contribute to the development of dystonia?
• Which class of drugs is known for causing extrapyramidal side effects like dystonia?

Related terms

Parkinson's Disease:

A progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia.

Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS): Drug-induced movement disorders that include acute and tardive symptoms such as dystonia.

Anticholinergics:

A class of drugs that inhibit acetylcholine activity in the central and peripheral nervous systems.