What is Sydenham Chorea

Sydenham Chorea, also known as St. Vitus' Dance, is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements and muscle weakness. It primarily affects children and adolescents, usually occurring as a complication of rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease caused by untreated streptococcal infections.

Symptoms: The hallmark symptom of Sydenham Chorea is the presence of rapid, jerky, and uncontrollable movements, particularly in the face, hands, and feet. These movements can be mild or severe, and may worsen with stress or emotional excitement. Other symptoms may include muscle weakness, difficulty with coordination, slurred speech, and emotional instability.

Cause: Sydenham Chorea is believed to be an autoimmune response triggered by the body's immune system mistakenly attacking the basal ganglia, a part of the brain responsible for movement control. This immune response is thought to be a result of the streptococcal infection.

Treatment: Treatment for Sydenham Chorea focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying streptococcal infection. Medications such as anticonvulsants or dopamine-blocking drugs may be prescribed to reduce the severity of movements. Physical therapy and emotional support are also important components of treatment.

Sydenham Chorea is usually temporary and tends to improve over time, with most individuals recovering fully within a few months to a year. However, in some cases, symptoms may persist or recur, requiring ongoing management and care.