Athetosis is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary, slow, writhing movements of the hands, feet, face, and other parts of the body.
Athetosis can be caused by a variety of conditions affecting the basal ganglia and related structures in the brain, including:
Athetosis is commonly associated with cerebral palsy, a group of neurological disorders that affect movement and posture, often caused by brain injury or abnormal brain development during pregnancy, childbirth, or young childhood.
Athetosis can result from traumatic brain injury, stroke, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, or other acquired brain injuries.
Rare genetic disorders, such as Huntington's disease or Wilson's disease, may manifest with athetoid movements.
Certain metabolic disorders, such as kernicterus (severe jaundice) in newborns or copper metabolism disorders, can cause athetosis.
Some medications, such as antipsychotics or dopamine-receptor blockers, may cause athetoid movements as a side effect.
The hallmark symptom of athetosis is involuntary, slow, twisting, writhing movements that typically affect the hands, feet, face, and other body parts. It is common for these movements to be continuous or intermittent, and when performing voluntary actions or maintaining a steady posture, they often become worse. Depending on the underlying cause, athetosis may be accompanied by other symptoms such as muscle stiffness, tremors, or difficulty controlling movements.
The diagnosis of athetosis includes taking a detailed medical history, performing a physical examination, and evaluating the neurological system. For structural abnormalities or brain lesions, imaging studies may be performed, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT). As a precaution against metabolic or genetic disorders associated with athetosis, laboratory tests may be ordered.
Athetosis treatment involves managing symptoms, improving motor function, and improving quality of life. Options include:
Some individuals may benefit from medications, such as benzodiazepines, anticholinergics, or dopamine-depleting agents, which can reduce athetoid movements and improve motor control.
In addition to improving muscle strength, coordination, and motor skills, physical therapy can minimize the impact of athetosis on daily life.
The goal of occupational therapy is to promote independence and functional abilities by enhancing fine motor skills, daily living activities, and adaptive strategies.
To support posture, improve mobility, and facilitate daily activities, assistive devices such as braces, splints, or adaptive equipment may be recommended.
An individual with athetosis who experiences difficulties with speech articulation or swallowing due to involuntary movements in the face and mouth may benefit from speech therapy.
It is important to address underlying risk factors or predisposing conditions that may contribute to the development of athetosis in order to prevent it. Athetosis can be reduced in susceptible individuals by prenatal care, early intervention after brain injuries or neurological disorders, and genetic counseling for families with a history of hereditary movement disorders.
It is characterized by involuntary, slow, writhing movements, often affecting the hands, feet, and face of individuals with athetosis. It is not possible to cure athetosis, but symptomatic treatments and supportive therapies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Consult a healthcare professional if you or someone you know has symptoms of athetosis.
