Torsion dystonia
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Torsion dystonia
Torsion dystonia is a rare inherited disease that causes sustained, twisting spasms. These spasms may only affect one limb at first but often spread to other limbs and the midsection.
Torsion dystonia is usually diagnosed between the ages of 6 and 16 and, once diagnosed, progresses rapidly. Torsion dystonia does not affect mental functioning. It is more common in people of Jewish heritage.
Treatment of torsion dystonia includes medications to control muscle spasms. Sometimes brain surgery is done. Genetic testing is available to identify carriers of the disease and help guide decisions about having children.
Credits
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
| Last updated: | May 25, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman |
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