Questions posted in the Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

Subject: Re: Benign Fascics
Forum: The Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum
Topic Area: Neuromuscular
Posted by CCF Neuro MD* on December 23, 1998 at 12:42:01:
In Reply to: Benign Fascics posted by Ian on December 21, 1998 at 15:08:58:



I was recently diagnosed with benign fascics following a neuro exam with a specialist and an EMG. I was wondering if people generally recover from such a condition and if so how long does it normally take. I am also interested as to the general symptoms of people with the same problem; like me, do they normally suffer from aching fatigued muscles and which are cramps often widespread and affecting only part of the muscle. Also,is there any history of tendons becoming affected in any way. Finally, are there any other symptoms commonly associated with this condition and can they develop with time.

Dear Ian,
Benign fasiculations are widespread and may last months or even years. No reflex changes, sensory loss, weakness, nerve conduction, EMG abnormalities (other than fasiculations), or increase in serum muscle enzymes are found. Initally, these test are performed during the initial evaluation to exclude other disease process that cause fasiculations (eg ALS). Benign fasiculations is a diagnosis of exclusion and will not evolve into another disease process. Exercise may exacerbate fasics. Low energy and fatigability is some of the patients may suggest an endogenous depressive illness. You may want to explore this option with your doctor. Good Luck.

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