Abstract
St. Vitus’s Dance (SD) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements of the arms, legs, and face. It is also known as Sydenham’s Chorea and is typically seen in young children and teenagers. The most common cause of SD is infection with Group A β-hemolytic Streptococcus (GABHS). Results of studies suggest that SD is associated with autoimmune reactions, genetic factors, and environmental triggers. Diagnosis of SD is based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Treatment of SD involves antibiotics, immunomodulators, and antiepileptic medications. This article reviews the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of SD in order to provide an overview of this disorder.
Introduction
St. Vitus’s Dance (SD) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements of the arms, legs, and face. It is also known as Sydenham’s Chorea and is typically seen in young children and teenagers. The disorder is named after Saint Vitus, the patron saint of epileptics and chorea, and is the most common form of chorea in children. The etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of SD are discussed in this paper.
Etiology
The most common cause of SD is infection with Group A β-hemolytic Streptococcus (GABHS). GABHS is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the throat and skin. It is believed that GABHS triggers an autoimmune reaction that affects the basal ganglia, the area of the brain responsible for movement. Other causes of SD include genetic factors, environmental triggers, and metabolic disorders.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of SD is based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. A physical examination will typically reveal abnormal movements of the face, arms, and legs. In addition, blood tests and a throat culture may be performed to look for evidence of GABHS infection.
Treatment
Treatment of SD involves antibiotics, immunomodulators, and antiepileptic medications. Antibiotics are used to treat GABHS infection. Immunomodulators, such as corticosteroids, are used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. Antiepileptic medications, such as valproic acid, are used to control the abnormal movements associated with SD.
Conclusion
St. Vitus’s Dance is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements of the arms, legs, and face. The most common cause of SD is infection with Group A β-hemolytic Streptococcus. Diagnosis of SD is based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Treatment of SD involves antibiotics, immunomodulators, and antiepileptic medications. This article provides an overview of the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of SD.
References
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Thoden, W. (2019). Sydenham’s Chorea – St. Vitus’s Dance. Retrieved from https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/117799-overview