New device to control combined lingual and palatal myoclonus

A rare case of isolated myoclonus in an elderly male without a history of epilepsy

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We describe a unique presentation of isolated lingual myoclonus presenting as intermittent expressive aphasia associated with uninterrupted intrusion-protrusion movement of the posterior tongue and adjoining hyoid.

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We discuss the paucity of evidence and suggest differential diagnosis as well as a brief discussion on possible underlying pathophysiology.

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Highlight previously described movement disorders and associated cases and draw parallels to isolated lingual myoclonus.

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Consolidate literature regarding the management of lingual myoclonus

Aim

Through this case report we attempt to highlight the presentation, initial investigation and management of lingual myoclonus as well as consolidate relevant literature.

Case

We present a unique case of a 72-year-old man who was admitted to the hospital for a sudden onset episodic speech arrest. Lingual myoclonus, an isolated movement disorder, manifested as an intermittent expressive aphasia secondary to the intrusion-protrusion movements of his tongue. During this time, the patient remained conscious and was able to continue to follow commands. Initial diagnostic evaluation with a CT scan, MRI and EEG failed to illicit a clear underlying etiology and the patient was empirically treated with valproic acid with complete resolution of his symptoms.

Discussion

This unusual presentation represents a rare disorder which is not well described in literature. Initial evaluation of which required excluding associated etiologies including strokes, seizures, medications/toxins or CNS infections. Without a clear etiology on initial diagnostic evaluation, the patient was empirically treated as no clear guidelines exist. This case presentation is an attempt to add to the current understanding of lingual myoclonus.

Myoclonus

Myoclonus is a hyperkinetic movement disorder characterized by quick, involuntary jerks. It encompasses a vast range of etiologies and widespread anatomic locations. Treatment frequently requires multiple agents and is often only partially beneficial. These patients pose a considerable challenge for the clinician, further complicated by the fact that many of the treatment choices lack evidence-based support. In the past few years, publications regarding therapy have been largely observational case reports or series. Although the literature on treatment of cortical myoclonus appears to be growing, evidence regarding myoclonus of noncortical origin is less well established. Investigation of more satisfactory treatments is needed, as this condition can be disturbing, debilitating, and sometimes harmful for patients. Continuing investigations are using various animal models (mostly of posthypoxic myoclonus), electrophysiologic studies, new imaging techniques such as diffusion tensor imaging, and genetic studies. Meanwhile, the clinical approach to diagnosing and classifying myoclonus remains largely unchanged. This review updates readers on current investigations and suggests guidelines for diagnosing and treating myoclonus.

Palatal tremor after lithium and carbamazepine use: a case report

Introduction

Palatal tremor, characterized by rhythmic contractions of the soft palate, can occur secondary to pathology in the dentato-rubro-olivary pathway, or in the absence of such structural lesions. Its pathogenesis is only partially understood. We describe a case of probable drug-induced palatal tremor.

Case presentation

A 27-year-old Indian man had taken carbamazepine and lithium for 7 years for the treatment of a manic episode. He presented with a one-year history of bilateral rhythmic oscillations of his soft palate and tremors of his tongue. There were no other abnormalities detected from his examination or after detailed investigation.

Conclusion

Palatal tremors may result from medication used in the treatment of psychiatric disorders.