The Definition of Chorea: An
irregular, unpredictable, random, jerky, movements that flow from one body part to another or a complete inability to sustain a steady body position. Athetosis is slower than chorea. It is acceptable to use the term
"choreoathetosis". List of Causes
Huntington's Disease Benign Familial Chorea Neuroacanthocytosis
Toxins / Drugs
Birth Control Pill Dilantin L-dopa
Vascular Causes (Strokes)
Polycythemia (a disorder associated with too many red blood cells) Hypertensive basal ganglia small strokes (Lacunes) Vasculitis (inflamation of blood vessels (eg. Lupus)
Metabolic Disorders
Hyperthroidism (overactive thyroid) Chorea Gravidarum (pregnancy induced chorea) Chronic liver failure Hypoglycemia (Low blood sugar)
Inherited Metabolic Diseases
Paroxysmal (episodic)Choreoathetosis
Infectious
Others
Treatment
Treatment needs to proceed with caution. Frequently treatment settles chorea but the functional status of the patient is worsened. Medications Options: A variety of medications can be used to help settle the movement
disorder including; Tetrabenazine, Reserpine, Trilafon (perphenazine), other Neuroleptics, and Haldol.
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