Opisthotonos

Opisthotonos is a type of abnormal posturing in which a person's spine and head are arched backward. This condition is often associated with severe spasms and can be a symptom of various neurological disorders and other medical conditions.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Opisthotonos can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

Meningitis: This is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by a variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Tetanus: This is a serious bacterial infection that affects the nervous system and causes severe muscle stiffness and spasms.
Strychnine poisoning: Strychnine is a strong poison that can cause severe muscle spasms and other symptoms.
Encephalitis: This is an inflammation of the brain that can be caused by a variety of organisms, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
Brain tumor: A tumor in the brain can cause a variety of symptoms, including abnormal posturing.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The main symptom of opisthotonos is severe arching of the back, with the head and heels bent backward and the body bowed forward. Other symptoms can include:

Severe muscle spasms
Pain
Fever
Difficulty swallowing
Seizures

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for opisthotonos depends on the underlying cause. This can include:

Antibiotics for bacterial infections
Antiviral medications for viral infections
Surgery to remove a brain tumor
Medications to control seizures and muscle spasms

See also[edit | edit source]

Opisthotonos Resources
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