title: Therapeutic challenges in dystonia.
abstract: Because dystonia can vary in clinical presentation and etiology, proper diagnosis and classification of these disorders are important in making therapeutic decisions. In primary dystonia, treatment is generally geared toward alleviating symptoms rather than curing the underlying condition, therefore severity of contractions, pain, and functional and social impact are also factors to consider in determining if and how to initiate therapy. On the other hand, if a secondary cause is identified, then it is often appropriate to direct treatment toward the underlying disorder. Treatment options include physical and occupational therapy, oral medications, botulinum toxin, and surgery. This article briefly reviews the clinical features, pathophysiology, and classification of dystonia before reviewing current therapeutic options.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurology, Loyola University Medical Center, 2160 South First Avenue, Room 2700, Maywood, IL 60153, USA. nkartha@lumc.edu
authors.forename: Ninith
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Kartha
mesh_terms: D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D046690:Deep Brain Stimulation; D015259:Dopamine Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004421:Dystonia / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D009498:Neurotoxins / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D015259:Dopamine Agents; D009498:Neurotoxins; D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A