Sydenham's Chorea
Sydenham's Chorea Causes
SC arises from childhood infection with Group A beta-hemolytic Streptococci and is reported to occur in 20-30% of patients with rheumatic fever (RF).
Sydenham's Chorea Definition
Sydenham's chorea (also known as "Saint Vitus Dance") is a disease marked by rapid, uncoordinated jerking movements affecting primarily the face, feet and hands.
Sydenham's Chorea Diagnosis
The diagnosis of Sydenham's is based on the doctor's observation of the patient's involuntary movements. Unlike tics, the movements associated with chorea are not repetitive; and unlike the behavior of hyperactive children, the movements are not done on purpose.
Sydenham's Chorea Symptoms and Signs
SC is marked by the acute onset (sometimes a few hours) of motor symptoms, classically chorea, usually affecting all limbs. Other motor symptoms include hypotonia, facial grimacing, loss of fine motor control and a gait disturbance.
Sydenham's Chorea Treatment
Movements cease during sleep, and the disease usually resolves after a number of months.