dystonic

Prolonged involuntary muscular contractions that may cause twisting (torsion) of body parts, repetitive movements, and increased muscular tone. These movements may be in the form of rhythmic jerks. The condition may progress in childhood, but progression is rare in adults. In children the legs are usually affected first.dystonic (-ton'ik), adjective

Etiology

Many childhood dystonias are genetically inherited. Drugs used to treat psychosis, Parkinson disease, strokes, brain tumors, toxic levels of manganese or carbon dioxide, and viral encephalitis may produce dystonia.

Treatment

Offending drugs are withdrawn, and the patient may be treated with diphenhydramine. Focal dystonias, such as blepharospasm or torticollis, may be treated with injected botulinum toxin, which paralyzes hypertonic muscle groups. Physiotherapy may also be helpful. Other treatments include physical therapy, deep brain stimulation, and pallidotomy.

Prolonged contraction affecting a single body part or a group of muscles, e.g., in the neck or hand. The most common focal dystonias are blepharospasm, torticollis, and writer's (musician's) cramp.

A relatively uncommon, progressive neurological syndrome beginning in childhood and marked by twisting postures of the neck, limbs, and/or pelvis. The condition is an autosomal dominant trait.