Lisker's sign

Lisker's sign is a clinical sign in which there is a delay in the relaxation of the muscle following a sudden contraction. It is named after the physician who first described it, Dr. Robert Lisker. This sign is often associated with myotonia, a condition characterized by delayed relaxation of the muscles after voluntary contraction or electrical stimulation.

Overview

Lisker's sign is a physical examination finding that is used to help diagnose certain neuromuscular disorders. It is a type of percussion myotonia, which is a clinical sign characterized by prolonged muscle contraction in response to a mechanical stimulus.

Clinical Significance

Lisker's sign is often seen in patients with myotonic dystrophy, a type of muscular dystrophy that affects both children and adults. It can also be seen in other conditions that cause myotonia, such as myotonia congenita and paramyotonia congenita.

Diagnosis

The sign is elicited by asking the patient to make a tight fist, then quickly open their hand. A delay in the relaxation of the hand muscles is indicative of Lisker's sign. This test can be performed in a clinical setting and does not require any special equipment.

Treatment

Treatment for conditions that cause Lisker's sign is typically aimed at managing the underlying condition. This may include medications to help manage symptoms, physical therapy to help improve muscle strength and flexibility, and in some cases, surgery.

See Also

• Myotonia
• Myotonic dystrophy
• Percussion myotonia

References

• Lisker R, Solano L, Martinez B, et al. (1971). "Myotonia in the Mexican population. A study of 41 families". Neurology 21 (10): 1062–1069.

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