Athetoid

Athetoid
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Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Involuntary writhing movements
Complications	Difficulty with speech and movement
Onset	Congenital or acquired
Duration	Lifelong
Types	N/A
Causes	Cerebral palsy, Basal ganglia damage
Risks	Birth complications, Kernicterus
Diagnosis	Clinical evaluation, MRI
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Physical therapy, Occupational therapy, Speech therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Athetoid is a term used to describe a type of movement disorder characterized by slow, involuntary, writhing movements. These movements are often seen in the hands, feet, arms, or legs and can affect the face and tongue, leading to difficulties with speech and swallowing. Athetoid movements are typically associated with cerebral palsy, particularly the athetoid cerebral palsy subtype, but can also result from other neurological conditions that affect the basal ganglia.

Causes

Athetoid movements are primarily caused by damage to the basal ganglia, a group of structures in the brain responsible for coordinating movement. This damage can occur due to:

• Cerebral palsy: Athetoid cerebral palsy is caused by brain damage that occurs before, during, or shortly after birth. This damage affects the basal ganglia, leading to the characteristic involuntary movements.
• Kernicterus: A rare but serious condition that occurs when severe jaundice in newborns leads to brain damage, particularly affecting the basal ganglia.
• Other neurological disorders: Conditions such as Huntington's disease or Wilson's disease can also cause athetoid movements.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of athetoid movement disorder is the presence of slow, writhing, and involuntary movements. These movements can be unpredictable and may increase with stress or voluntary movement. Other symptoms may include:

• Difficulty with fine motor skills
• Problems with balance and coordination
• Speech difficulties due to involvement of facial muscles
• Challenges with swallowing and drooling

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of athetoid movement disorder involves a thorough clinical evaluation by a neurologist. This may include:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess brain structure
• Blood tests to rule out metabolic or genetic conditions

Treatment

While there is no cure for athetoid movement disorder, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

• Physical therapy: Helps improve muscle strength and coordination.
• Occupational therapy: Assists with daily activities and adaptive techniques.
• Speech therapy: Aids in improving communication skills and swallowing.
• Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help control muscle movements.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with athetoid movement disorder varies depending on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. With appropriate therapy and support, many individuals can lead fulfilling lives.

Also see

• Cerebral palsy
• Basal ganglia
• Kernicterus
• Movement disorders