Review
Peripheral nerve hyperexcitability syndromes
Zhili Wang, Jingwen Niu, Liying Cui
Published 2019-11-08
Cite as Chin J Neurol, 2019, 52(11): 957-961. DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.1006-7876.2019.11.017
Abstract
Peripheral nerve hyperexcitability syndromes (PNHS) encompass a spectrum of a heterogeneous condition with clinical as well as electrophysiological manifestations of peripheral nerve hyperexcitability. The PNHS consist of Isaacs syndrome, Morvan syndrome and Cramp-fasciculation syndrome, which cause widespread symptoms and signs while without evident peripheral nerve disease. Probably the most well-known condition of PNHS is Isaacs syndrome, often called acquired neuromyotonia. Clinical symptoms of PNHS are characterized by muscle twitching, cramps, stiffness, and neuropathic pain. The electrophysiological findings that are very useful in the diagnosis of PNHS are spontaneous myokymic, neuromyotonic, and cramp discharges. An overview of the history, clinical manifestations, pathophysiology, electrophysiological findings and management of PNHS is presented.
Key words:
Myokymia; Neuromyotonia; Peripheral nerve hyperexcitability; Isaacs syndrome; Morvan syndrome
Contributor Information
Zhili Wang
Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
Jingwen Niu
Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
Liying Cui
Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China