Saint Vitus' dance

Saint Vitus' Dance, also known as Sydenham's chorea, is a disorder characterized by rapid, uncoordinated jerking movements primarily affecting the face, hands, and feet. This condition is a neurological disorder that results from an infection caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes, leading to rheumatic fever. Saint Vitus' Dance is considered a major criterion of rheumatic fever, which is a complication of untreated streptococcal pharyngitis or scarlet fever. The condition is named after Saint Vitus, who is believed to protect against this disease, and Thomas Sydenham, an English physician who provided a detailed description in the 17th century.

Symptoms and Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The primary symptoms of Saint Vitus' Dance include involuntary, rapid, and unpredictable movements of the arms, legs, and facial muscles. These movements can be exacerbated by stress or voluntary movements and tend to subside during sleep. Additional symptoms may include muscle weakness, emotional instability, and difficulties in maintaining balance. The diagnosis of Saint Vitus' Dance primarily involves observing these characteristic movements, along with a history of rheumatic fever or a recent streptococcal infection. Blood tests may show evidence of a past or current streptococcal infection, and additional tests, such as MRI or CT scans, can rule out other causes of the symptoms.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for Saint Vitus' Dance focuses on addressing the underlying streptococcal infection with antibiotics, such as penicillin, to prevent the progression to rheumatic fever. Additionally, medications to control the movements, such as antipsychotics or anticonvulsants, may be prescribed. In some cases, sedatives are used to help control symptoms. Supportive therapies, including physical therapy and counseling, may also be beneficial in managing the condition. It is crucial to treat streptococcal infections promptly to reduce the risk of developing this and other complications.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

Saint Vitus' Dance is most commonly seen in children between the ages of 5 and 15, although it can occur in adults. The condition is more prevalent in females than in males and is more common in developing countries, where rheumatic fever is more prevalent due to limited access to healthcare and antibiotics. The incidence of Saint Vitus' Dance has significantly decreased in developed countries with the widespread use of antibiotics for streptococcal infections.

History[edit | edit source]

The association of the condition with Saint Vitus can be traced back to the Middle Ages when people believed that dancing before the statue of Saint Vitus could prevent or cure the disease. Thomas Sydenham provided a comprehensive description of the disorder in the 17th century, distinguishing it from other movement disorders. The understanding of the link between streptococcal infection and rheumatic fever, and consequently Saint Vitus' Dance, developed in the 20th century, leading to more effective treatments and prevention strategies.