[Tardive dystonia]

Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 1992 Aug 1;136(31):1519-22.
[Article in Dutch]

Abstract

Two patients with tardive dystonia are presented. Tardive dystonia is a late-onset side effect of dopamine antagonist, which occurs in approximately 2% of the patients in the course of treatment with neuroleptic medication. The dystonia usually starts by affecting the musculature of face and (or) neck and is often progressive to a segmental localization. Of differential diagnostic importance are: conversion disorder, acute dystonia, Wilson's disease, idiopathic dystonia and dystonia triggered by other agents. Treatment starts with reevaluation of the need for ongoing neuroleptic treatment. Investigation of the pharmacotherapy of the dystonia concerns mostly treatment with dopamine depletors or with high doses of anticholinergic agents. Improvement of 50% of the patients is reported, although total recovery is rare. Many other substances and also some physical methods (ECT and surgery) have been used with varying results.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antipsychotic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antipsychotic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Dystonia / chemically induced*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Schizophrenia / drug therapy
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents