Tremor is an important and common symptom in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). It constituted one of the three core features of MS triad described by Charcot in the last century. Tremor could have a drastic impact on patients’ quality of life. This paper provides an overview of tremor in MS and future perspectives with a particular emphasis on its epidemiology (prevalence: 25–58%), clinical characteristics (i.e., large amplitude 2.5–7 Hz predominantly postural or intention tremor vs. exaggerated physiological tremor vs. pseudo-rhythmic activity arising from cerebellar dysfunction vs. psychogenic tremor), pathophysiological mechanisms (potential implication of cerebellum, cerebello-thalamo-cortical pathways, basal ganglia, and brainstem), assessment modalities (e.g., tremor rating scales, Stewart–Holmes maneuver, visual tracking, digitized spirography and accelerometric techniques, accelerometry–electromyography coupling), and therapeutic options (i.e., including pharmacological agents, botulinum toxin A injections; deep brain stimulation or thalamotomy reserved for severe, disabling, or pharmaco-resistant tremors). Some suggestions are provided to help overcome the unmet needs and guide future therapeutic and diagnostic studies in this complex disorder.
Paroxysmal symptoms are well-recognized manifestations of multiple sclerosis (MS). These are characterized by multiple, brief, sudden onset, and stereotyped episodes. They manifest as motor, sensory, visual, brainstem, and autonomic symptoms. When occurring in the setting of an established MS, the diagnosis is relatively straightforward. Conversely, the diagnosis is significantly more challenging when they occur as the initial manifestation of MS. The aim of this review is to summarize the various forms of paroxysmal symptoms reported in MS, with emphasis on the clinical features, radiological findings and treatment options.
Autoimmune brainstem encephalitis (BSE) is a rare neurological condition with a wide range of underlying etiologies. It can be subdivided into two broad groups: a primary inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) or a brainstem disorder secondary to systemic diseases where the CNS is only one of many affected organs. Symptoms range from mild to life-threatening manifestations. Most cases respond well to immunotherapy. Therefore, broad and in-depth knowledge of the various inflammatory disorders that target the brainstem is essential for guiding the diagnostic approach and assisting in early initiation of appropriate therapy. We herein report on a case of BSE and provide an overview of the various causes of autoimmune BSE with an emphasis on the clinical manifestations and diagnostic approach.
We describe a case of neck pain in which inversion of the triceps reflex was observed. It is suggested that the finding of an inverted triceps reflex is evidence of a C7 root injury with associated myelopathy.