Reticular reflex myoclonus: a physiological type of human post-hypoxic myoclonus. Issue 3 (March 1977)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hallett, M; Chadwick, D; Adam, J; Marsden, C D
• Is Part Of: Journal of neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry. Volume 40:Issue 3(1977)
• Page Start: 253
• Page End: 264
• Publication Date: 1977-03
• Subjects: Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.40.3.253
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3050

Abstract

Abstract : A patient with post-hypoxic myoclonus, sensitive to therapy with 5-hydroxytryptophan and clonazepam, was subjected to detailed electrophysiological investigation. Brief generalised jerks followed the critical stimulus of muscle stretch. The electroencephalogram showed generalised spikes that were associated with, but not time locked to, the myoclonus. The cranial nerve nuclei were activated upward. Analysis of the findings suggests that the mechanism of the myoclonus is hyperactivity of a reflex mediated in the reticular formation of the medulla oblongata.