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Neuropediatrics 2015; 46(01): 026-032
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1395347
Original Article
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Febrile and Postinfectious Myoclonus: Case Reports and Review of the Literature

Veronica Delucchi
1   Department of Neuroscience, Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University of Parma, Parma, PR, Italy
,
Elena Pavlidis
1   Department of Neuroscience, Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University of Parma, Parma, PR, Italy
,
Benedetta Piccolo
2   Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Mother and Child Department, University-Hospital of Parma, Parma, PR, Italy
,
Francesco Pisani
1   Department of Neuroscience, Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University of Parma, Parma, PR, Italy
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

16 July 2014

14 September 2014

Publication Date:
29 December 2014 (online)

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Abstract

Purpose Myoclonus associated with fever or following an infectious event (parainfectious myoclonic jerks) is a transient event with an abrupt onset. It is not common and often not recognized. In these reports, its clinical features and its favorable outcome are described.

Patients and Methods We identified three pediatric patients with parainfectious myoclonic jerks who were treated at Children's Neuropsychiatry Unit at the University-Hospital of Parma (Italy).

Results The myoclonic jerks presented an abrupt onset and were characterized by brief involuntary muscle contractions temporally related to febrile episodes or following infectious illnesses. The outcome was positive as they resolve spontaneously with cessation of febrile/infective events.

Conclusion Parainfectious myoclonic jerks are temporary benign phenomena that could occur in association with the fever or following an infectious event. It is quite important to make a correct diagnosis as early as possible to avoid unnecessary hospitalizations or investigations.

Keywords

myoclonus - fever - parainfectious - benign and transitory phenomena - PANDAS
 

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