Extreme task specificity in writer's cramp

Mov Disord. 2011 Sep;26(11):2107-9. doi: 10.1002/mds.23827. Epub 2011 Jun 28.

Abstract

Background: Focal hand dystonia may be task specific, as is the case with writer's cramp. In early stages, task specificity can be so specific that it may be mistaken for a psychogenic movement disorder.

Methods: We describe 4 patients who showed extreme task specificity in writer's cramp. They initially only had problems writing either a single letter or number. Although they were largely thought to be psychogenic, they progressed to typical writer's cramp.

Conclusions: Early recognition of this condition may provide an opportunity for early initiation of treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural

MeSH terms

  • Dystonic Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Hand / physiopathology*
  • Handwriting*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscle Cramp
  • Sensitivity and Specificity