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What is opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome?
30 December 2025
It is a rare neurological condition affecting both children and adults, characterized by rapid, multi-directional eye movements, sudden muscle contractions, ataxia (lack of coordination), irritability, and insomnia.
Opsoclonus-Myoclonus Syndrome (OMS), also known as Kinsbourne Encephalopathy, is considered an autoimmune disease that can be acute or chronic. It usually appears during the first three years of life, though it can also emerge earlier, later, or in adulthood.
Although in many cases it is considered an idiopathic (unknown cause) condition, clinical research points to some of the following causes:
- The presence of a neuroblastoma or nerve tissue tumor, especially in children.
- Infections caused by viruses, such as hepatitis C, influenza, mononucleosis, and HIV, among others.
- Bacterial infections such as Lyme disease, Mycoplasma, or Streptococcus.
Signs and symptoms Opsoclonus-Myoclonus Syndrome
- Behavioral changes.
- Temper tantrums.
- Excessive drooling.
- Sudden muscle spasms.
- Imbalance and instability when walking.
- Difficulty sitting or standing, especially at the onset of the disease.
- Difficulty speaking or expressing oneself.
- Encephalopathy (brain disease), in adults.
- Lack of coordination.
- Generalized malaise.
- Rapid, multi-directional eye movements (opsoclonus).
- Nervousness and irritability.
- Loss of muscle mass.
- Swallowing problems.
- Tendency to tilt the head to one side.
- Sleep disorders.
Diagnosis and treatment Opsoclonus-Myoclonus Syndrome
The specialist will analyze the symptoms and clinical history, then perform a physical examination and order tests to help confirm the diagnosis, such as:
- Blood tests.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
- Computed Tomography (CT scan).
The treatment will depend on the cause, but regularly includes:
- Corticosteroids.
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
- Immunoglobulin (IVIg).
- Immunosuppressive drugs.
- If a tumor is the cause, surgery to remove it, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy will be required.
At the Neurology Center, a group of highly trained and certified doctors in the various neurological specialties are ready to assist you with the quality and warmth that characterizes us.
Related centers and departments Opsoclonus-Myoclonus Syndrome
Fuentes:
- neurologia.com
- elsevier.es
- aeped.es
- cun.es
- topdoctors.es
- nih.gov
- analesdepediatria.org
- femexer.org
- medigraphic.com
How can we help you?
The dissemination of the content of this material is for informational purposes only and does not replace, under any circumstance or condition, a consultation with a specialist doctor, for which the ABC Medical Center is not responsible for the different use that may be given to it. If you require more information related to the subject, we suggest you contact the specialist doctor you trust directly.
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