Opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome
Evidence: Immune-mediated
Names
Opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome (OMS)
Kinsbourne syndrome
Ataxo-opso-myoclonus syndrome
Opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome
Dancing eye-dancing feet syndrome
Dancing eye syndrome
OMA syndrome
Paraneoplastic opsoclonus-myoclonus
Paraneoplastic opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome
POMA syndrome
Description
Opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the nervous system. Inflammation in the neurological system causes this disorder. OMS typically occurs with tumors (neuroblastomas) or after a viral or bacterial infection. The immune reaction to the tumor or infection makes the body attack the nervous system. In some cases, the cause is unknown.
Patient Groups
Bloggers
None
Prevalence
US Incidence: 20-30 per year [Pranzatelli 2017]
Typical Age of onset
The onset is usually abrupt and severe in infancy or childhood. Typically, this disorder occurs in children around 18 months old. OMS can become chronic and it can affect adults.
Symptoms
Fast, irregular eye movements (opsoclonus)
Quick muscle jerks or spasms (myoclonus)
Uncoordinated movement and difficulty with walking and standing (ataxia)
Unsteady, trembling gait
Irritability
Sleep disturbance
Rage attacks
Children may appear to be nervous, irritable, or lethargic while adults may have mental clouding (encephalopathy)
Loss of muscle tone
References
Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)
National Organization for Rare Disorders
Profile by Yvonne Shea
