Vitus Dance, medically known as Sydenham’s chorea, is a neurological disorder primarily affecting children. This condition is characterized by involuntary, jerky movements, predominantly impacting the face, arms, legs, and trunk. Beyond these physical manifestations, vitus dance can also present with reduced muscle tone, muscle weakness, and emotional or behavioral changes, notably obsessive-compulsive tendencies. The severity of symptoms varies significantly, ranging from mild facial tics and restlessness to debilitating involuntary movements that impede normal daily function. Typically, the choreic movements develop gradually, worsening over several weeks to a month.
Vitus dance most commonly affects children between 5 and 15 years old, with a higher incidence in girls. It emerges as a complication following rheumatic fever, a condition triggered by streptococcal infection, often appearing up to six months after the fever subsides. The underlying cause is believed to be an autoimmune response to the streptococcal infection.
The occurrence of vitus dance has become relatively rare, largely attributed to the widespread use of antibiotics in treating childhood infections. It is estimated to affect about 25% of children who have experienced rheumatic fever.
Managing and Treating Vitus Dance
Currently, there is no specific cure for vitus dance. Treatment strategies focus on managing symptoms, as the condition typically resolves on its own within approximately 3 to 6 months. Recommendations may include bed rest, sedatives, and medications to help control the involuntary movements. To prevent future streptococcal infections, penicillin prophylaxis might also be prescribed.
In some cases, subtle choreic signs and behavioral irregularities can linger, fluctuating in intensity for a year or more after the initial episode.
Prognosis for Vitus Dance
Generally, the outlook for children with vitus dance is positive. Full recovery is usually expected, often occurring within weeks of symptom onset.
However, recurrence is possible in about 20 percent of patients, typically within the first two years following the initial episode. Notably, recurrences have also been reported during pregnancy in women with a history of rheumatic fever in childhood.
Further Resources on Vitus Dance
Click here for the latest Australian research papers on Sydenham’s Chorea.
International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society https://www.movementdisorders.org/MDS/About/Movement-Disorder-Overviews/Chorea–Huntingtons-Disease.htm
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Sydenham-Chorea-Information-Page
Reviewed by Associate Professor James Colebatch
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