Episodic cervical dystonia associated with gastro-oesophageal reflux. A case of adult-onset Sandifer syndrome.

Abstract

Sandifer syndrome is a dystonic movement disorder described in children with severe gastro-oesophageal reflux. We now report a patient who had the features of Sandifer syndrome first developing in adult life. Onset of dystonic episodes followed closely the occurrence of a Bell's palsy, while symptoms of peptic oesophagitis had been present for several months beforehand. Successful symptomatic treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux was accompanied by cessation of the dystonic episodes. Possible pathophysiological mechanisms of the abnormal movements in Sandifer syndrome are discussed.

• Authors: M Shahnawaz, L R van der Westhuizen, R F Gledhill
• Journal: Clinical neurology and neurosurgery (Clin Neurol Neurosurg) Vol. 103 Issue 4 Pg. 212-5 (Dec 2001) ISSN: 0303-8467 [Print] Netherlands
• PMID: 11714563 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Age of Onset
• Bell Palsy (complications)
• Dystonia (etiology)
• Female
• Gastroesophageal Reflux (complications)
• Humans
• Middle Aged
• Recurrence
• Remission Induction
• Syndrome