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  Opsoclonus Myoclonus 
Synonym(s):  Kinsbourne syndrome, Myoclonic Encephalopathy of Infants, Dancing Eyes-Dancing Feet Syndrome
Reviewed  11-19-2001  

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Table of Contents (click to jump to sections)

What is Opsoclonus Myoclonus?
Is there any treatment?
What is the prognosis?
What research is being done?

Organizations

What is Opsoclonus Myoclonus?
Opsoclonus myoclonus is a rare neurological disorder characterized by unsteady gait, intention tremor (rhythmic, involuntary motions of the limbs during voluntary movements), myoclonus (brief, shock-like muscle spasms), and opsoclonus (irregular, rapid, horizontal and vertical eye movements). Other symptoms may include dysphasia (difficulty speaking), dysarthria (poorly articulated speech), mutism (inability to speak), hypotonia (decreased muscle tone), lethargy, irritability, or malaise (a vague feeling of bodily discomfort). Opsoclonus myoclonus may occur in association with tumors or viral infections.

Is there any treatment?
Treatment for opsoclonus myoclonus may include corticosteroids or ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone). In cases where there is a tumor present, treatment such as chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation may be required.

What is the prognosis?
The prognosis for opsoclonus myoclonus varies depending on the symptoms and the presence and treatment of tumors. With treatment of the underlying cause of the disorder, there may be an improvement of symptoms. Spontaneous remissions (unexplained lack of disease activity) may also occur. Generally the disorder is not fatal.

What research is being done?
The NINDS supports and conducts research on movement disorders such as opsoclonus myoclonus. Current research is attempting to clarify and expand the knowledge about movement disorders, and to find ways to prevent and treat these disorders.

Select this link to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.

 Organizations

Opsoclonus Myoclonus Support Network, Inc.
c/o 317 Capricorn Ave.
Oakland, CA 94611
sandragreenberg@hotmail.com
http://www.geocities.com/opso-myoclonus
Tel: 510-595-0451

National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
P.O. Box 1968
(55 Kenosia Avenue)
Danbury, CT 06813-1968
orphan@rarediseases.org
http://www.rarediseases.org
Tel: 203-744-0100 Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673)
Fax: 203-798-2291


NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.

All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated.


Provided by:
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892




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