Sydenham Chorea: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Krishna Haskar Dhanyamraju , Neurologists

Causes
Find a Doctor
Diagnosis
Treatment
FAQs
Book an Appointment

1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Sydenham chorea is an autoimmune disorder that arises as a complication of streptococcal infections, specifically Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. The condition is named after Thomas Sydenham, who first described it in the 17th century. It is characterized by involuntary, rapid, and irregular movements, emotional instability, and muscle weakness.

What Are the Symptoms of Sydenham Chorea?

Sydenham chorea commonly affects movement, behavior, and emotional health. Symptoms may appear gradually and can interfere with daily activities, coordination, and communication.

Motor Symptoms

The hallmark of Sydenham chorea is the presence of involuntary movements, particularly affecting the hands, feet, and face. These movements are jerky, rapid, and uncoordinated, making daily activities challenging. Patients may exhibit:

Choreiform Movements: Quick, irregular, and unpredictable muscle contractions.
Muscle Weakness: Generalized weakness and fatigue.
Gait Disturbances: Difficulty in walking, characterized by unsteady and exaggerated movements.

Neuropsychiatric Symptoms

In addition to motor symptoms, Sydenham chorea often presents with a range of neuropsychiatric symptoms, including:

Emotional Instability: Sudden mood swings, irritability, and episodes of crying or laughing.
Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors: Repetitive actions or thoughts.
Cognitive Impairment: Difficulty in concentrating and memory issues.

Other Symptoms

Speech Difficulties: Slurred speech and difficulty in articulating words.
Handwriting Changes: Noticeable deterioration in handwriting quality.

What Causes Sydenham Chorea?

Sydenham chorea is primarily caused by an autoimmune reaction following an infection with Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. The body's immune system mistakenly attacks the basal ganglia, a region in the brain responsible for motor control, leading to the characteristic symptoms of the disorder.

Risk Factors

Age: Most commonly affects children between the ages of 5 and 15.
Gender: Higher incidence in females.
History of Rheumatic Fever: Previous episodes of rheumatic fever increase the risk.

When Should You See a Doctor for Sydenham Chorea?

Medical attention from a neurologist is important if symptoms suggest neurological involvement or worsen over time.

Sudden involuntary movements
Difficulty walking or speaking
Behavioral or emotional changes
History of recent throat infection
Symptoms interfering with daily activities

Early treatment can help reduce complications and improve recovery.

No doctors found for Sydenham Chorea in any location.

How Is Sydenham Chorea Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of Sydenham chorea is mainly based on medical history, neurological examination, and tests to confirm a recent streptococcal infection. Early diagnosis helps guide treatment and prevent complications.

Clinical Evaluation

Diagnosis of Sydenham chorea is primarily clinical, based on a detailed patient history and physical examination. The following criteria are considered:

History of Streptococcal Infection: Recent throat infection or confirmed rheumatic fever.
Neurological Examination: Assessment of involuntary movements, muscle strength, and coordination.
Psychiatric Evaluation: Screening for emotional and cognitive symptoms.

Laboratory Tests

Throat Culture: To identify Group A streptococcus.
Blood Tests: Elevated levels of anti-streptolysin O (ASO) antibodies indicate a recent streptococcal infection.

Imaging Studies

MRI and CT Scans: Although not routinely required, these imaging modalities can help rule out other neurological conditions.

What Are the Treatment Options for Sydenham Chorea?

Treatment for Sydenham Chorea focuses on controlling symptoms, reducing inflammation, and preventing future streptococcal infections. Supportive therapies also help improve daily functioning and recovery.

Medical Treatment

The primary goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and prevent complications. The mainstay of treatment includes:

Antibiotics: Long-term antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent recurrent streptococcal infections and rheumatic fever.
Anti-inflammatory Medications: Corticosteroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation in the brain.
Antipsychotic Medications: Drugs like haloperidol or risperidone may be prescribed to manage severe choreiform movements and psychiatric symptoms.

Supportive Therapies

Occupational Therapy: To assist with daily activities and improve coordination.
Physical Therapy: To strengthen muscles and enhance motor control.
Speech Therapy : To address speech difficulties and improve communication skills.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Regular Follow-ups: Continuous monitoring by healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans as needed.
Stress Management : Techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises to manage emotional instability.
Nutritional Support: A balanced diet to ensure adequate nutrition and energy levels.

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Consult Sydenham Chorea Doctors Today

What Is the Prognosis and Long-Term Outcomes of Sydenham Chorea?

The prognosis for Sydenham chorea is generally favorable, especially with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Most patients experience significant improvement within 2 to 3 months, although some symptoms may persist longer. Recurrences can occur, particularly if preventive measures against streptococcal infections are not maintained.

Complications

Cardiac Issues: Potential for rheumatic heart disease if associated with rheumatic fever.
Chronic Movement Disorders: Rarely, some patients may develop persistent movement disorders.

Preventive Measures

Prompt Treatment of Strep Throat: Early antibiotic treatment for streptococcal infections to prevent rheumatic fever.
Regular Medical Check-ups: Ongoing evaluation to detect and manage recurrences promptly.

What Is the Recovery Process for Sydenham Chorea?

Recovery from Sydenham chorea depends on the severity of symptoms and how early treatment begins.

Most patients improve within 2 to 3 months
Symptoms gradually reduce with treatment
Regular follow-up helps prevent recurrence
Long-term antibiotic prophylaxis may be required
Supportive therapies improve functional recovery

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What causes Sydenham chorea?

Sydenham chorea is caused by a complication of rheumatic fever, where the immune system mistakenly attacks parts of the brain, leading to involuntary movements.

2. What are the symptoms of Sydenham chorea?

Symptoms include rapid, uncoordinated jerking movements, especially in the hands, feet, and face, along with muscle weakness and emotional instability.

3. How is Sydenham chorea diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a clinical evaluation of symptoms and a history of recent streptococcal infection or rheumatic fever.

4. How is Sydenham chorea treated?

Treatment includes antibiotics to treat the underlying infection, anti-inflammatory medications, and in some cases, antiepileptic drugs to manage movements.