Intention tremor

Intention Tremor

Intention tremor is a neurological disorder characterized by a rhythmic, oscillatory movement of a body part during goal-directed tasks. Unlike tremors that occur at rest, intention tremors become noticeable when an individual actively engages in a task, such as reaching for an object.

Demonstration of a hand exhibiting intention tremor during a targeted movement.

Definition

An intention tremor is a form of dyskinetic disorder that exhibits a broad, coarse, and typically low-frequency (below 5 Hz) tremor. This type of tremor becomes evident during deliberate, visually-guided movements, and its amplitude increases as the affected body part approaches its target.

Characteristics

• Direction: The tremor usually occurs perpendicular to the direction of the intended movement.
• Dysmetria: A common accompanying symptom, dysmetria is where an individual overshoots or undershoots their intended target due to the tremor.
• Frequency: It typically presents at a frequency below 5 Hz.

Causes and Anatomy

The primary anatomical region associated with intention tremor is the cerebellum. Specifically:

• Dysfunction in the lateral zone of the cerebellum, which is responsible for controlling visually guided movements, is often the root cause.
• Depending on the precise location and extent of cerebellar damage, intention tremors can manifest either unilaterally (on one side of the body) or bilaterally (on both sides).
• The side of the cerebellum exhibiting dysfunction typically corresponds to the same side of the body displaying the tremor.

Differential Diagnosis

When assessing an intention tremor, it's crucial to differentiate it from other forms of tremors, such as:

• Resting tremor: Occurs when the body part is at rest and not performing any task.
• Postural tremor: Manifests when holding a position against gravity.
• Kinetic tremor: Occurs during any voluntary movement.

Treatment

While there's no cure for intention tremor, several interventions might help manage its symptoms:

• Medications: Certain drugs, including anticonvulsants and beta-blockers, may provide relief.
• Physical and Occupational Therapy: Therapists can offer strategies and exercises to enhance coordination and reduce the impact of tremors on daily activities.
• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): In severe cases, DBS, a surgical procedure, might be considered.

See Also

• Cerebellum
• Tremor
• Dysmetria
• Neurological disorders

References

1. "Intention Tremor: Clinical Implications and Pathophysiology." Journal of Neurology and Neurosurgical Psychiatry.
2. "Dysmetria and Intention Tremor: A Clinical Guide." Neurological Reviews.
3. "Deep Brain Stimulation for Treatment of Tremors." Clinical Neurosurgery.

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