Dr. Binit B. Shah discusses diagnosing and treating essential tremor with Dr. Christopher C. Muth. They cover non-pharmacological, pharmacological, and surgical treatments, including deep brain stimulation and MRI guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy.
Diagnosis of essential tremor involves differentiating resting tremors from action tremors based on timing and characteristics.
Treatment for essential tremor ranges from medication like propranolol to surgical interventions like deep brain stimulation.
Deep dives
Diagnosis and Classification of Tremor
When approaching the diagnosis of tremors, understanding the timing and characteristics of tremors is crucial. Differentiating between resting tremors and tremors during action is essential. Tremor features like amplitude and frequency play a significant role in the diagnostic process.
Essential Tremor Characteristics and Diagnosis
Essential tremor presents as a clinical diagnosis with no specific paraclinical tests available. Key features include moderate amplitude above two centimeters and a faster frequency than other tremors. The onset of essential tremor is gradual and can worsen over time, affecting individuals across a wide age range.
Treatment Options for Essential Tremor
Treatment for essential tremor depends on symptom severity and patient preference. Medications like propranolol and primidone are first-line options, while occupational therapy can also be beneficial. In severe cases, surgical interventions such as deep brain stimulation or focused ultrasound thalamotomy may be considered after conservative treatments have been explored.
Essential tremor is a common movement disorder. Author Binit B. Shah, MD, of the University of Virginia joins JAMA Deputy Editor Christopher C. Muth, MD, to discuss the diagnostic evaluation and treatment of essential tremor, including pharmacological, nonpharmacological, and surgical treatments. Related Content: