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Neurology (Expert Forum)
myoclonus--starting§stopping???
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myoclonus--starting§stopping???
by nal7792, Jul 13, 2002 12:00AM
Hi--My teenage son was diagnosed with spinal segmental myoclonus. His right leg spasms, even in his sleep. His doctor tried different meds, even Bo-tox, to get the shaking to stop. He is presently taking Keppra. His leg stopped shaking for about 7 weeks and now it started up again. He was on 1250mg when it stopped and now he is up to 2000mg. He has a very thorough doctor who ran lots of tests, such as mri, cat scan, eeg, spinal tap, etc. My question is.. does the off again, on again spasms happen with myoclonus? Will it ever completely go away. Any info will be appreciated. Thank you!!
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-Neuro-M.D.-JT, Jul 16, 2002 12:00AM
Not sure what you mean exactly when you say your son's leg "spasms." I'm assuming that you mean the myoclonic jerking of the leg. Unfortunately, segmental or spinal myoclonus is one of the few movement disorders to persist in sleep. Not only that, but it is known to persist indefinitely throughout life. Glad all of the tests were okay as this can be caused by things like tumor and trauma or mistaken for seizures. Medications that have been successful for patients in the past include tetrabenezine, tegretol, and of course klonopin which is the first line drug. If all of this has been tried and his life is greatly affected by it, then consider a second opinion at a movement disorders center at a major clinical/academic hospital. Columbia Presbyterian in NY is one of the world's best. Good luck.
