Paroxysmal exercise-induced dystonia

Paroxysmal exercise-induced dystonia (PED) is a rare, neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, sustained muscle contractions or spasms. These spasms are often brought on by physical exertion and can affect various parts of the body, most commonly the legs.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of paroxysmal exercise-induced dystonia is the occurrence of dystonic movements or postures triggered by exercise. These movements can be painful and can significantly impair the individual's ability to perform the exercise. The severity and duration of the symptoms can vary widely among individuals, with some experiencing only mild, transient symptoms and others experiencing severe, prolonged episodes.

Causes

The exact cause of PED is unknown, but it is believed to be related to a malfunction in the basal ganglia, a group of structures in the brain involved in coordinating movement. Some cases of PED have been associated with mutations in the SLC2A1 gene, which provides instructions for producing a protein that transports glucose into cells.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of PED is based on the clinical presentation of the symptoms and their occurrence in relation to exercise. There are no specific diagnostic tests for PED, but other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as epilepsy or Parkinson's disease, should be ruled out.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for PED, but treatment is aimed at managing the symptoms. This can include medications to reduce muscle spasms, physical therapy to improve mobility and strength, and avoidance of triggers, such as certain types of exercise.

See also

• Dystonia
• Movement disorders
• Neurological disorders