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Babeliowsky WA, Bot M, Potters WV, van den Munckhof P, Blok ER, de Bie RM, Schuurman R, van Rootselaar A. Deep Brain Stimulation for Orthostatic Tremor: An Observational Study. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2024; 11:676-685. [PMID: 38586984 PMCID: PMC11145120 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.14035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary orthostatic tremor (OT) can affect patients' life. Treatment of OT with deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the thalamic ventral intermediate nucleus (Vim) is described in a limited number of patients. The Vim and posterior subthalamic area (PSA) can be targeted in a single trajectory, allowing both stimulation of the Vim and/or dentatorubrothalamic tract (DRT). In essential tremor this is currently often used with positive effects. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of Vim/DRT-DBS in OT-patients, based on standing time and Quality of Life (QoL), also on the long-term. Furthermore, to relate stimulation of the Vim and DRT, medial lemniscus (ML) and pyramidal tract (PT) to beneficial clinical and side-effects. METHODS Nine severely affected OT-patients received bilateral Vim/DRT-DBS. Primary outcome measure was standing time; secondary measures included self-reported measures, neurophysiological measures, structural analyses, surgical complications, stimulation-induced side-effects, and QoL up to 56 months. Stimulation of volume of tissue activated (VTA) were related to outcome measures. RESULTS Average maximum standing time increased from 41.0 s ± 51.0 s to 109.3 s ± 65.0 s after 18 months, with improvements measured in seven of nine patients. VTA (n = 7) overlapped with the DRT in six patients and with the ML and/or PT in six patients. All patients experienced side-effects and QoL worsened during the first year after surgery, which improved again during long-term follow-up, although remaining below age-related normal values. Most patients reported a positive effect of DBS. CONCLUSION Vim/DRT-DBS improved standing time in patients with severe OT. Observed side-effects are possibly related to stimulation of the ML and PT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wietske A. Babeliowsky
- Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyAmsterdam UMC location University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Maarten Bot
- NeurosurgeryAmsterdam UMC location University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Wouter V. Potters
- Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyAmsterdam UMC location University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - Edwin R. Blok
- Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyAmsterdam UMC location University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Rob M.A. de Bie
- Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyAmsterdam UMC location University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Amsterdam NeuroscienceNeurodegenerationAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Rick Schuurman
- NeurosurgeryAmsterdam UMC location University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Anne‐Fleur van Rootselaar
- Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyAmsterdam UMC location University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Amsterdam NeuroscienceNeurodegenerationAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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2
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Sozzi S, Ghai S, Schieppati M. The 'Postural Rhythm' of the Ground Reaction Force during Upright Stance and Its Conversion to Body Sway-The Effect of Vision, Support Surface and Adaptation to Repeated Trials. Brain Sci 2023; 13:978. [PMID: 37508910 PMCID: PMC10377030 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13070978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The ground reaction force (GRF) recorded by a platform when a person stands upright lies at the interface between the neural networks controlling stance and the body sway deduced from centre of pressure (CoP) displacement. It can be decomposed into vertical (VGRF) and horizontal (HGRF) vectors. Few studies have addressed the modulation of the GRFs by the sensory conditions and their relationship with body sway. We reconsidered the features of the GRFs oscillations in healthy young subjects (n = 24) standing for 90 s, with the aim of characterising the possible effects of vision, support surface and adaptation to repeated trials, and the correspondence between HGRF and CoP time-series. We compared the frequency spectra of these variables with eyes open or closed on solid support surface (EOS, ECS) and on foam (EOF, ECF). All stance trials were repeated in a sequence of eight. Conditions were randomised across different days. The oscillations of the VGRF, HGRF and CoP differed between each other, as per the dominant frequency of their spectra (around 4 Hz, 0.8 Hz and <0.4 Hz, respectively) featuring a low-pass filter effect from VGRF to HGRF to CoP. GRF frequencies hardly changed as a function of the experimental conditions, including adaptation. CoP frequencies diminished to <0.2 Hz when vision was available on hard support surface. Amplitudes of both GRFs and CoP oscillations decreased in the order ECF > EOF > ECS ≈ EOS. Adaptation had no effect except in ECF condition. Specific rhythms of the GRFs do not transfer to the CoP frequency, whereas the magnitude of the forces acting on the ground ultimately determines body sway. The discrepancies in the time-series of the HGRF and CoP oscillations confirm that the body's oscillation mode cannot be dictated by the inverted pendulum model in any experimental conditions. The findings emphasise the robustness of the VGRF "postural rhythm" and its correspondence with the cortical theta rhythm, shed new insight on current principles of balance control and on understanding of upright stance in healthy and elderly people as well as on injury prevention and rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shashank Ghai
- Department of Political, Historical, Religious and Cultural Studies, Karlstad University, 65188 Karlstad, Sweden
- Centre for Societal Risk Research, Karlstad University, 65188 Karlstad, Sweden
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3
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Kim SH, Han JY, Song MK, Choi IS, Park HK. Orthostatic tremor after knee contusion without head trauma: A rare case report. Turk J Phys Med Rehabil 2023; 69:111-115. [PMID: 37201017 PMCID: PMC10186025 DOI: 10.5606/tftrd.2023.8718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Orthostatic tremor (OT) is an uncommon progressive movement disorder that involves a leg tremor when standing or weight bearing. Additionally, OT can accompany other medical or neurodegenerative disorders. In this article, we report an unusual case of OT after trauma in an 18-year-old male patient whose symptoms of OT have been resolved after a multimodal therapeutic approach, including botulinum toxin injection. Surface electromyography, including a tremor recording, was used for the diagnosis of OT. The patient completely recovered after the rehabilitation. A comprehensive rehabilitative treatment is required in the management of OT as the patient's quality of life is greatly affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- San-Ha Kim
- Department of Physical & Rehabilitation Medicine, Chonnam National University Hospital, Gwangju City, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Young Han
- Department of Physical & Rehabilitation Medicine, Regional Cardiocerebrovascular Center, Center for Aging and Geriatrics, Chonnam National University Medical School & Hospital, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Keun Song
- Department of Physical & Rehabilitation Medicine, Regional Cardiocerebrovascular Center, Center for Aging and Geriatrics, Chonnam National University Medical School & Hospital, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - In Sung Choi
- Department of Physical & Rehabilitation Medicine, Chonnam National University Hospital, Gwangju City, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeng-Kyu Park
- Department of Physical & Rehabilitation Medicine, Regional Cardiocerebrovascular Center, Center for Aging and Geriatrics, Chonnam National University Medical School & Hospital, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
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4
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Mark VW. Functional neurological disorder: Extending the diagnosis to other disorders, and proposing an alternate disease term—Attentionally-modifiable disorder. NeuroRehabilitation 2022; 50:179-207. [DOI: 10.3233/nre-228003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The term “functional neurological disorder,” or “FND,” applies to disorders whose occurrence of neurological symptoms fluctuate with the patient’s attention to them. However, many other disorders that are not called “FND” nonetheless can also follow this pattern. Consequently, guidelines are unclear for diagnosing “FND.” OBJECTIVE: To review the neurological conditions that follow this pattern, but which have not so far been termed “FND,” to understand their overlap with conditions that have been termed “FND,” and to discuss the rationale for why FND has not been diagnosed for them. METHOD: A systematic review of the PubMed literature registry using the terms “fluctuation,” “inconsistency,” or “attention” did not yield much in the way of these candidate disorders. Consequently, this review instead relied on the author’s personal library of peer-reviewed studies of disorders that have resembled FND but which were not termed this way, due to his longstanding interest in this problem. Consequently, this approach was not systematic and was subjective regarding disease inclusion. RESULTS: This review identified numerous, diverse conditions that generally involve fluctuating neurological symptoms that can vary with the person’s attention to them, but which have not been called “FND.” The literature was unclear for reasons for not referring to “FND” in these instances. CONCLUSION: Most likely because of historical biases, the use of the term “FND” has been unnecessarily restricted. Because at its core FND is an attentionally-influenced disorder that can respond well to behavioral treatments, the field of neurological rehabilitation could benefit by extending the range of conditions that could be considered as “FND” and referred for similar behavioral treatments. Because the term “FND” has been viewed unfavorably by some patients and clinical practitioners and whose treatment is not implied, the alternative term attentionally-modifiable disorder is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor W. Mark
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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5
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Lv H, Song C, Li W, Liu Y. Orthostatic tremor secondary to primary malignant melanoma of the spinal cord: A case report. Eur J Neurol 2022; 29:942-946. [PMID: 35141991 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Orthostatic tremor and spinal cord melanoma are rare entities and seem unlikely to be associated. Herein, we report a patient diagnosed with orthostatic tremor secondary to primary malignant melanoma of the spinal cord. CASE PRESENTATION We report the case of a 67-year-old man who experienced tremor when he was standing, which disappeared when he was sitting or walking. He also reported gait disturbance and cognitive dysfunction. Electromyography revealed a regular and symmetric high-frequency tremor in the lower extremities. The patient was admitted to a hospital several times and was diagnosed with primary orthostatic tremor and later hydrocephalus; thus, he received a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Finally, he showed symptoms of the presence of melanoma in the spinal cord, which was supported by spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging findings. Primary malignant melanoma of the spinal cord was confirmed postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS Orthostatic tremor is a rare entity that can be characterized by specific high-frequency tremors when the subject is standing. Considering that it remains unknown why this condition appears, some possible associations, such as primary spinal cord melanoma, should be considered. Thus, a comprehensive assessment of these types of patients is required. Our case report may facilitate the understanding of the pathophysiology and clinical symptoms of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbo Lv
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.,Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Chengyuan Song
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yiming Liu
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.,Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
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6
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Merola A, Torres‐Russotto DR, Stebbins GT, Vizcarra JA, Shukla AW, Hassan A, Marsili L, Krauss JK, Elble RJ, Deuschl G, Espay AJ. Development and Validation of the Orthostatic Tremor Severity and Disability Scale (
OT
‐10). Mov Disord 2020; 35:1796-1801. [DOI: 10.1002/mds.28142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Aristide Merola
- Department of Neurology The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Columbus Ohio USA
| | | | - Glenn T. Stebbins
- Department of Neurological Sciences Rush University Medical Center Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Joaquin A. Vizcarra
- Department of Neurology Emory University Atlanta Georgia USA
- Gardner Family Center for Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology University of Cincinnati Cincinnati Ohio USA
| | - Aparna Wagle Shukla
- Department of Neurology University of Florida College of Medicine Gainesville Florida USA
| | - Anhar Hassan
- Department of Neurology Mayo Clinic Rochester Minnesota USA
| | - Luca Marsili
- Gardner Family Center for Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology University of Cincinnati Cincinnati Ohio USA
| | - Joachim K. Krauss
- Department of Neurosurgery Hannover Medical School, MHH Hannover Germany
| | - Rodger J. Elble
- Department of Neurology Southern Illinois University School of Medicine Springfield Illinois USA
| | - Günther Deuschl
- Department of Neurology Universitätsklinikum Schleswig‐Holstein, Christian‐Albrechts University Kiel Germany
| | - Alberto J. Espay
- Gardner Family Center for Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology University of Cincinnati Cincinnati Ohio USA
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7
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Kim HA, Bisdorff A, Bronstein AM, Lempert T, Rossi-Izquierdo M, Staab JP, Strupp M, Kim JS. Hemodynamic orthostatic dizziness/vertigo: Diagnostic criteria. J Vestib Res 2020; 29:45-56. [PMID: 30883381 PMCID: PMC9249281 DOI: 10.3233/ves-190655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents the diagnostic criteria for hemodynamic orthostatic dizziness/vertigo to be included in the International Classification of Vestibular Disorders (ICVD). The aim of defining diagnostic criteria of hemodynamic orthostatic dizziness/vertigo is to help clinicians to understand the terminology related to orthostatic dizziness/vertigo and to distinguish orthostatic dizziness/vertigo due to global brain hypoperfusion from that caused by other etiologies. Diagnosis of hemodynamic orthostatic dizziness/vertigo requires: A) five or more episodes of dizziness, unsteadiness or vertigo triggered by arising or present during upright position, which subsides by sitting or lying down; B) orthostatic hypotension, postural tachycardia syndrome or syncope documented on standing or during head-up tilt test; and C) not better accounted for by another disease or disorder. Probable hemodynamic orthostatic dizziness/vertigo is defined as follows: A) five or more episodes of dizziness, unsteadiness or vertigo triggered by arising or present during upright position, which subsides by sitting or lying down; B) at least one of the following accompanying symptoms: generalized weakness/tiredness, difficulty in thinking/concentrating, blurred vision, and tachycardia/palpitations; and C) not better accounted for by another disease or disorder. These diagnostic criteria have been derived by expert consensus from an extensive review of 90 years of research on hemodynamic orthostatic dizziness/vertigo, postural hypotension or tachycardia, and autonomic dizziness. Measurements of orthostatic blood pressure and heart rate are important for the screening and documentation of orthostatic hypotension or postural tachycardia syndrome to establish the diagnosis of hemodynamic orthostatic dizziness/vertigo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Ah Kim
- Department of Neurology, Keimyung University Dongsan Hospital, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Alexandre Bisdorff
- Department of Neurology, Centre Hospitalier Emile Mayrisch, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Adolfo M. Bronstein
- Department of Neuro-otology, Division of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Charing Cross Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Thomas Lempert
- Department of Neurology, Schlosspark-Klinik, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Jeffrey P. Staab
- Departments of Psychiatry and Psychology and Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Michael Strupp
- Department of Neurology and German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Ji-Soo Kim
- Department of Neurology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Dizziness Center, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
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8
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Mousele C, Bentley P, Tai YF. A Rare Presentation of Orthostatic Tremor as Abdominal Tremor. Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (N Y) 2018; 8:603. [PMID: 30622838 PMCID: PMC6315046 DOI: 10.7916/d8w10ptg] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Orthostatic tremor (OT) is a weight-bearing hyperkinetic disorder characterized by unsteadiness while standing that is relieved when sitting or walking. Case report A 66-year-old male presented with a 5 year-history of tremor in his abdomen, but only when he stood in a stationary position. The tremor disappeared when he stood or walked. On examination, he had palpable tremor in his rectus abdominis and gastrocnemius virtually instantaneously after standing. His electromyography findings confirmed the presence of a 12-Hz tremor in the tibialis anterior while standing, with subharmonics recorded in the external obliques and rectus abdominis. Discussion Our case illustrates an unusual presentation of OT. The diagnosis is supported by its characteristic frequency and specific appearance only during upright stance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Mousele
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG UK,*To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
| | - Paul Bentley
- Division of Brain Sciences, Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College London, Fulham Palace Road, London, W6 8RF UK
| | - Yen F. Tai
- Division of Brain Sciences, Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College London, Fulham Palace Road, London, W6 8RF UK
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9
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Wuehr M, Schlick C, Möhwald K, Schniepp R. Walking in orthostatic tremor modulates tremor features and is characterized by impaired gait stability. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14152. [PMID: 30237442 PMCID: PMC6147915 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32526-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary orthostatic tremor (OT) is characterized by high-frequency lower-limb muscle contractions and a disabling sense of unsteadiness while standing. Patients consistently report a relief of symptoms when starting to ambulate. Here, we systematically examined and linked tremor and gait characteristics in patients with OT. Tremor and gait features were examined in nine OT patients and controls on a pressure-sensitive treadmill for one minute of walking framed by two one-minute periods of standing. Tremor characteristics were assessed by time-frequency analysis of surface EMG-recordings from four leg muscles. High-frequency tremor during standing (15.29 ± 0.17 Hz) persisted while walking but was consistently reset to higher frequencies (16.34 ± 0.25 Hz; p < 0.001). Tremor intensity was phase-dependently modulated, being predominantly observable during stance phases (p < 0.001). Tremor intensity scaled with the force applied during stepping (p < 0.001) and was linked to specific gait alterations, i.e., wide base walking (p = 0.019) and increased stride-to-stride fluctuations (p = 0.002). OT during walking persists but is reset to higher frequencies, indicating the involvement of supraspinal locomotor centers in the generation of OT rhythm. Tremor intensity is modulated during the gait cycle, pointing at specific pathways mediating the peripheral manifestation of OT. Finally, OT during walking is linked to gait alterations resembling a cerebellar and/or sensory ataxic gait disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Wuehr
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.
| | - C Schlick
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - K Möhwald
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - R Schniepp
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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10
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Lenka A, Pal PK, Bhatti DE, Louis ED. Pathogenesis of Primary Orthostatic Tremor: Current Concepts and Controversies. TREMOR AND OTHER HYPERKINETIC MOVEMENTS (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2017; 7:513. [PMID: 29204315 PMCID: PMC5712672 DOI: 10.7916/d8w66zbh] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Background Orthostatic tremor (OT), a rare and complex movement disorder, is characterized by rapid tremor of both legs and the trunk while standing. These disappear while the patient is either lying down or walking. OT may be idiopathic/primary or it may coexist with several neurological conditions (secondary OT/OT plus). Primary OT remains an enigmatic movement disorder and its pathogenesis and neural correlates are not fully understood. Methods A PubMed search was conducted in July 2017 to identify articles for this review. Results Structural and functional neuroimaging studies of OT suggest possible alterations in the cerebello-thalamo-cortical network. As with essential tremor, the presence of a central oscillator has been postulated for OT; however, the location of the oscillator within the tremor network remains elusive. Studies have speculated a possible dopaminergic deficit in the pathogenesis of primary OT; however, the evidence in favor of this concept is not particularly robust. There is also limited evidence favoring the concept that primary OT is a neurodegenerative disorder, as a magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging study revealed significant reduction in cerebral and cerebellar N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) levels, a marker of neuronal compromise or loss. Discussion Based on the above, it is clear that the pathogenesis of primary OT still remains unclear. However, the available evidence most strongly favors the existence of a central oscillatory network, and involvement of the cerebellum and its connections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Lenka
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India.,Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Pramod Kumar Pal
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Danish Ejaz Bhatti
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Elan D Louis
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,Center for Neuroepidemiology and Clinical Neurological Research, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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11
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Nonmotor Symptoms in Essential Tremor and Other Tremor Disorders. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2017; 134:1373-1396. [PMID: 28805576 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2017.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Tremor, like dystonia, is a term used at the phenomenological, syndromic, and aetiopathological level. Parkinsonian, essential, and dystonic tremor are the three most common tremor diagnoses encountered in clinical practice. Investigation of nonmotor symptoms in essential tremor and dystonic tremor syndromes is significantly hampered by the lack of clear clinical diagnostic criteria for these groups at a syndromic level, and the absence of biomarkers which allow definitive diagnosis at an aetiopathological level. Much work is needed in clarifying the motor features of these disorders in order to allow delineation of the nonmotor features of the most common tremor syndromes. With this limitation in mind, this chapter reviews what is known about nonmotor symptoms in these two tremor types. The final sections deal with nonmotor symptoms observed in patients with lesional tremor, thankfully a much more clearly defined albeit less common group of patients.
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12
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Benito-León J, Domingo-Santos Á. Orthostatic Tremor: An Update on a Rare Entity. TREMOR AND OTHER HYPERKINETIC MOVEMENTS (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2016; 6:411. [PMID: 27713855 PMCID: PMC5039949 DOI: 10.7916/d81n81bt] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Background Orthostatic tremor (OT) remains among the most intriguing and poorly understood of movement disorders. Compared to Parkinson’s disease or even essential tremor, there are very few articles addressing more basic science issues. In this review, we will discuss the findings of main case series on OT, including data on etiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic approach, treatment strategies, and outcome. Methods Data for this review were identified by searching PUBMED (January 1966 to August 2016) for the terms “orthostatic tremor” or “shaky leg syndrome,” which yielded 219 entries. We did not exclude papers on the basis of language, country, or publication date. The electronic database searches were supplemented by articles in the authors’ files that pertained to this topic. Results Owing to its rarity, the current understanding of OT is limited and is mostly based on small case series or case reports. Despite this, a growing body of evidence indicates that OT might be a progressive condition that is clinically heterogeneous (primary vs. secondary cases) with a broader spectrum of clinical features, mainly cerebellar signs, and possible cognitive impairment and personality disturbances. Along with this, advanced neuroimaging techniques are now demonstrating distinct anatomical and functional changes, some of which are consistent with neuronal loss. Discussion OT might be a family of diseases, unified by the presence of leg tremor, but further characterized by etiological and clinical heterogeneity. More work is needed to understand the pathogenesis of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julián Benito-León
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain; Department of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
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13
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Adebayo PB. Orthostatic tremor: current challenges and future prospects. Degener Neurol Neuromuscul Dis 2016; 6:17-24. [PMID: 30050365 PMCID: PMC6053087 DOI: 10.2147/dnnd.s84742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
This review provides an outlook of orthostatic tremor (OT), a rare adult-onset tremor characterized by subjective unsteadiness during standing that is relieved by sitting or walking. Recent case series with a long-time follow-up have shown that the disease is slowly progressive, spatially spreads to the upper limbs, and other neurological disorders may develop in about one-third of the patients. The diagnosis of OT hinges on the typical history of unsteadiness during standing, which is confirmed by electromyographic findings of a 13–18 Hz tremor that is typically absent during tonic activation while the patient is sitting and lying. Although the tremor is generated by a central oscillator, cerebellar and/or basal ganglia dysfunction are needed for its manifestation (double lesion hypothesis). However, functional neuroimaging findings have not consistently implicated the dopaminergic system in its pathogenesis. Drug treatments have been largely disappointing with no sustained benefits, although thalamic deep brain stimulation has helped some patients. Large-scale follow-up studies, more drug trials, and novel therapies are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Babatunde Adebayo
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoşo, Oyo State, Nigeria,
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14
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Sarva H, Severt WL, Jacoby N, Pullman SL, Saunders-Pullman R. Secondary orthostatic tremor in the setting of cerebellar degeneration. J Clin Neurosci 2016; 27:173-5. [PMID: 26765757 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2015.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Revised: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Orthostatic tremor (OT) and cerebellar ataxia are uncommon and difficult to treat. We present two patients with OT and cerebellar degeneration, one of whom had spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 and a good treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harini Sarva
- Department of Neurology, Division of Movement Disorders, Mount Sinai Beth Israel, 10 Union Square East, New York, NY 10003, USA.
| | - William Lawrence Severt
- Department of Neurology, Division of Movement Disorders, Mount Sinai Beth Israel, 10 Union Square East, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Nuri Jacoby
- Department of Neurology, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Seth L Pullman
- The Neurological Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachel Saunders-Pullman
- Department of Neurology, Division of Movement Disorders, Mount Sinai Beth Israel, 10 Union Square East, New York, NY 10003, USA; Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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15
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Termsarasab P, Thammongkolchai T, Frucht SJ. Spinal-generated movement disorders: a clinical review. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MOVEMENT DISORDERS 2015; 2:18. [PMID: 26788354 PMCID: PMC4711055 DOI: 10.1186/s40734-015-0028-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Spinal-generated movement disorders (SGMDs) include spinal segmental myoclonus, propriospinal myoclonus, orthostatic tremor, secondary paroxysmal dyskinesias, stiff person syndrome and its variants, movements in brain death, and painful legs-moving toes syndrome. In this paper, we review the relevant anatomy and physiology of SGMDs, characterize and demonstrate their clinical features, and present a practical approach to the diagnosis and management of these unusual disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pichet Termsarasab
- />Department of Neurology, Movement Disorder Division, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
- />Department of Medicine, Neurology Division, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Steven J. Frucht
- />Department of Neurology, Movement Disorder Division, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
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Rigby HB, Rigby MH, Caviness JN. Orthostatic Tremor: A Spectrum of Fast and Slow Frequencies or Distinct Entities? Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (N Y) 2015; 5:324. [PMID: 26317042 PMCID: PMC4548762 DOI: 10.7916/d8s75fhk] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Orthostatic tremor (OT) is defined by the presence of a high-frequency (13-18 Hz) tremor of the legs upon standing associated with a feeling of unsteadiness. However, some patients have discharge frequencies of <13 Hz, so-called "slow OT". The aim of this study was to characterize patients with unsteadiness upon standing found to have <13 Hz tremor discharges on neurophysiologic testing. METHODS A retrospective review was performed on all subjects with a diagnosis of OT who were referred to the Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, between 1999 and 2013 for confirmation using neurophysiology. RESULTS Fourteen of 28 subjects (50%) had OT discharges of <13 Hz, of whom eight had frequencies of <10 Hz and six had frequencies of 10-13 Hz. Lower frequency discharges tended to have a broader spectral peak, greater variability in discharge duration, and lower inter-muscular coherence. Subjects with <13 Hz OT had shorter mean disease duration at time of neurophysiology testing (2.00 years in <10 Hz group, 7.96 years 10-13 Hz group, and 11.43 years >13 Hz; p = 0.002). The proportion of subjects who experienced gait unsteadiness (85.7% vs. 66.6% vs. 21.4%; p = 0.016), falls (37.5% vs. 50% vs. 0%; p = 0.010), and had abnormal gait on examination (71.4% vs. 66.0% vs. 14.3%; p = 0.017) was greater in those with low and intermediate frequencies. DISCUSSION Slow tremor electromyography frequencies (<13 Hz) may characterize a substantial proportion of patients labeled as OT. These subjects may have greater gait involvement and higher likelihood of falls leading to earlier presentation to subspecialty care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather B. Rigby
- Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Center, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
- Division of Neurology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Matthew H. Rigby
- Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - John N. Caviness
- Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Center, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
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17
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Erro R, Bhatia KP, Cordivari C. Shaking on Standing: A Critical Review. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2014; 1:173-179. [PMID: 30363785 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.12053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2014] [Revised: 04/19/2014] [Accepted: 04/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Orthostatic tremor is a rare condition, though its exact prevalence is unknown, which is clinically characterized by a feeling of unsteadiness or being about to fall on standing and which disappears on walking, sitting, or lying down. It is generally accepted that classic orthostatic tremor manifests with a high-frequency tremor (>13 Hz) of the legs when standing. However, a number of patients initially reported as orthostatic tremor did not actually have such electrophysiological features. It is our experience that there is a clinical spectrum of different conditions presenting as shaking on standing, and this highlights the importance of the electrophysiology to aid the differential diagnosis of these disorders. Here, we provide a critical review of the clinical spectrum of shaking on standing, along with demonstrative electrophysiological recordings of some of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Erro
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders UCL Institute of Neurology London United Kingdom.,Dipartimento di Scienze Neurologiche e del Movimento Università di Verona Verona Italy.,Department of Clinical Neurophysiology National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square London United Kingdom
| | - Kailash P Bhatia
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders UCL Institute of Neurology London United Kingdom
| | - Carla Cordivari
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square London United Kingdom
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18
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Abstract
Tremor is a hyperkinetic movement disorder characterized by rhythmic oscillations of one or more body parts. It can be disabling and may impair quality of life. Various etiological subtypes of tremor are recognized, with essential tremor (ET) and Parkinsonian tremor being the most common. Here we review the current literature on tremor treatment regarding ET and head and voice tremor, as well as dystonic tremor, orthostatic tremor, tremor due to multiple sclerosis (MS) or lesions in the brainstem or thalamus, neuropathic tremor, and functional (psychogenic) tremor, and summarize main findings. Most studies are available for ET and only few studies specifically focused on other tremor forms. Controlled trials outside ET are rare and hence most of the recommendations are based on a low level of evidence. For ET, propranolol and primidone are considered drugs of first choice with a mean effect size of approximately 50 % tremor reduction. The efficacy of topiramate is also supported by a large double-blind placebo-controlled trial, while other drugs have less supporting evidence. With a mean effect size of about 90 % deep brain stimulation in the nucleus ventralis intermedius or the subthalamic nucleus may be the most potent treatment; however, there are no controlled trials and it is reserved for severely affected patients. Dystonic limb tremor may respond to anticholinergics. Botulinum toxin improves head and voice tremor. Gabapentin and clonazepam are often recommended for orthostatic tremor. MS tremor responds only poorly to drug treatment. For patients with severe MS tremor, thalamic deep brain stimulation has been recommended. Patients with functional tremor may benefit from antidepressants and are best be treated in a multidisciplinary setting. Several tremor syndromes can already be treated with success. But new drugs specifically designed for tremor treatment are needed. ET is most likely covering different entities and their delineation may also improve treatment. Modern study designs and long-term studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne A. Schneider
- Department of Neurology, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, University-Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Schittenhelmstr. 10, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Günther Deuschl
- Department of Neurology, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, University-Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Schittenhelmstr. 10, 24105 Kiel, Germany
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Buijink AWG, Contarino MF, Koelman JHTM, Speelman JD, van Rootselaar AF. How to tackle tremor - systematic review of the literature and diagnostic work-up. Front Neurol 2012; 3:146. [PMID: 23109928 PMCID: PMC3478569 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2012.00146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2012] [Accepted: 09/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Tremor is the most prevalent movement disorder in clinical practice. It is defined as involuntary, rhythmic, oscillatory movements. The diagnostic process of patients with tremor can be laborious and challenging, and a clear, systematic overview of available diagnostic techniques is lacking. Tremor can be a symptom of many diseases, but can also represent a distinct disease entity. Objective: The objective of this review is to give a clear, systematic and step-wise overview of the diagnostic work-up of a patient with tremor. The clinical relevance and value of available laboratory tests in patients with tremor will be explored. Methods: We systematically searched through EMBASE. The retrieved articles were supplemented by articles containing relevant data or provided important background information. Studies that were included investigated the value and/or usability of diagnostic tests for tremor. Results: In most patients, history and clinical examination by an experienced movement disorders neurologist are sufficient to establish a correct diagnosis, and further ancillary examinations will not be needed. Ancillary investigation should always be guided by tremor type(s) present and other associated signs and symptoms. The main ancillary examination techniques currently are electromyography and SPECT imaging. Unfortunately, many techniques have not been studied in large prospective, diagnostic studies to be able to determine important variables like sensitivity and specificity. Conclusion: When encountering a patient with tremor, history, and careful clinical examination should guide the diagnostic process. Adherence to the diagnostic work-up provided in this review will help the diagnostic process of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- A W G Buijink
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Hess CW, Pullman SL. Tremor: clinical phenomenology and assessment techniques. Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (N Y) 2012; 2:tre-02-65-365-1. [PMID: 23439931 PMCID: PMC3517187 DOI: 10.7916/d8wm1c41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2011] [Accepted: 11/23/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tremors are among the most common movement disorders. As there can be considerable variability in the manner in which clinicians assess tremor, objective quantitative tools such as electromyography, accelerometry, and computerized, spiral analysis can be very useful in establishing a clinical diagnosis and in research settings. METHODS In this review, we discuss the various methods of quantitative tremor analysis and the classification and pathogenesis of tremor. The most common pathologic tremors and an approach to the diagnosis of tremor etiology are described. CONCLUSIONS Pathologic tremors are common, and the diagnosis of underlying etiology is not always straightforward. Computerized quantitative tremor analysis is a valuable adjunct to careful clinical evaluation in distinguishing tremulous diseases from physiologic tremors, and can also help shed light on their pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W. Hess
- Clinical Motor Physiology Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Seth L. Pullman
- Clinical Motor Physiology Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
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