Neurol. praxi. 2010;11(6):418-421

Stiff limb syndrome

MUDr.Aleš Kopal¹, MUDr.Jan Latta¹, MUDr.Milan Mrklovský², doc.MUDr.Edvard Ehler, CSc.¹

¹ Neurologická klinika PKN, a. s. Pardubice a FZS Univerzita Pardubice

² Radiologické odd. PKN, a. s. Pardubice

Stiff limb syndrom is characterized by muscle stiffness and episodic painful spasms of one or two extremities. Pathophysiological basis of

this syndrome is a disturbance of spinal motoneurone inhibition. For a correct diagnosis are of upmost importance – electromyographic

investigation with continuous motor units activity. Finding of antibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase in blood and cerebrospinal

fluid is of supportive value. For therapy are used – drugs increasing gabaergic inhibition (diazepam, baclofene), immunosuppression (methylprednisolone

i. v., immunoglobulin i. v.) or therapeutic plasma exchange. The authors present a case report of 65-year old woman with

a severe form of stiff limb syndrome with asymmetric stiffness of both lower extremities, difficult ambulation, typical findings and a very

good response to therapy (methylprednisolone i. v.)

Keywords: stiff limb syndrome, stiff person syndrome, glutamic acid decarboxylase, herpes zoster

Published: December 31, 2010  Show citation