Myoclonus Epilepsy
Myoclonus Epilepsy Causes
Myoclonus epilepsy - or most forms of myoclonus, for that matter - results from a malfunction or defect in the central nervous system. The malfunction may occur in the cortex or in the brainstem, or elsewhere in the brain. While the exact cause of myoclonus epilepsy is not known to date, it has been linked to an imbalance in neurotransmitters or brain chemicals that leads to a miscommunication between nerve cells, particularly those that control movement.
Myoclonus Epilepsy Definition
Myoclonus epilepsy is a type of brain function disturbance characterized by epileptic seizures, muscle twitching or myoclonus, and other serious symptoms.
Myoclonus Epilepsy Diagnosis
The primary diagnostic tools used for determining myoclonus epilepsy are electroencephalography (EEG) to record the brain's electrical activity and electromyography (EMG) to measure the muscles' electrical charges. Other tests that may be done include: body imaging; cerebrospinal fluid exam; tests for malabsorption disorders; blood and urine tests; as well as genetic tests to check for possible gene dysfunction.
Myoclonus Epilepsy Symptoms and Signs
Symptoms of progressive myoclonus epilepsy often worsen over time and can be sometimes fatal. These symptoms include: fever and headaches; focal neurological finding; haemorrhagic eye wounds; papilledema; muscle contractions; myoclonic attacks; irregular muscle twitching; dementia; as well as progressive loss of memory and other intellectual functions. Most symptoms of myoclonus epilepsy appear in childhood or adolescence.
Myoclonus Epilepsy Treatment
There are no specific drugs designed to treat myoclonus epilepsy, but myoclonic signs and symptoms may be alleviated with such medications as: clonazepam; divalproex; primidone; levetiracetam; other anticonvulsants; as well as certain immunosuppressants.