Neurological transmission disorders

Question 1

What is a hypokinetic disorder?

Answer 1

Conditions associated with abnormally decreased bodily movement

Question 2

Describe myasthenia gravis

Answer 2

Caused by autoantibodies directed against components of the postsynaptic NMJ
Loss of Ach receptors decreases the number of muscle fibres that can depolarise during motor nerve activation
AP is reduced and muscle contraction is reduced

S&S:
Weakness
Diplopia
Ptosis

Question 3

Describe Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS)

Answer 3

Presynaptic NMJ disorder

S&S:
Proximal muscle weakness Autonomic dysfunction
Areflexia (decreased/absent reflex)
Leg weakness/general weakness
Muscle pain/stiffness
Dry mouth

Question 4

Describe botulism

Answer 4

Rare disorder
Life-threatening
Release of neurotoxin that blocks release of acetylcholine from presynaptic junction

S&S:
Results in symmetric ocular bulbar weakness, followed by descending skeletal muscle weakness, respiratory compromise and autonomic dysfunction

Question 5

What are hyperactivity disorders?

Answer 5

Conditions associated with excessive movement, impulsivity, and difficulty with attention regulation, often beyond what is considered developmentally appropriate

Question 6

Describe Stiff-Person Syndrome

Answer 6

Autoimmune CNS disorder localising to the brainstem and spinal cord

S&S:
Spine and leg rigidity
Lumbar hyper-lordosis
Wide gait
Can be startled easily which results in painful spasms
Focal with rigidity and spasms involving 1 or more limbs (usually distally)