Neurology 7 - Benign Essential Tremor

Question 1

define benign essential tremor

Answer 1

relatively common

assoc with older age

fine tremor of voluntary muscles

usually hands but can be in head/jaw

Question 2

features of benign essential tremor

Answer 2

fine 
symmetrical
worse on voluntary movement
worse if tired or stressed
improved with alcohol 
absent while asleep

Question 3

DDx of tremor

Answer 3

Parkinson's 
Multiple sclerosis
Huntingdon's chorea
Hyperthyroidism 
Fever 
Medications  (antipsychotics)

Question 4

management of benign essential tremor, if needed

Answer 4

propanolol 
primidone (barbituate anti epileptic)