Muscle twitching
August 9, 2019 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring
Muscle twitching
I had already inquired about a slightly elevated polyphasic rate in a muscle of the right calf, detected in the EMG, and received a response. Unfortunately, there were technical difficulties with the follow-up question, so I am asking this question again. After several EMG tests, an increased polyphasic rate was now noticeable in the myotome of the right calf. Additionally, the Romberg test was not quite normal. Since December, I have been suffering from generalized fasciculations that deeply frighten me. Should this new development be considered alarming in terms of a motor neuron disease?
Good morning,
I am sorry that the follow-up did not work.
As I already mentioned, there are many other causes of an increased polyphasic rate, such as an increased muscle lactate content due to exertion.
The Romberg test assesses something completely different, namely the balance organ, which is not affected by a motor neuron disease. "Not quite right" is of course a vague indication. If you sway a little, it is not a pathological sign, it can also occur in healthy individuals who do not particularly train their balance. The Romberg test is pathological when there is significant swaying and, of course, when there is a clear tendency to fall to one side.
Unfortunately, you did not mention how the examining neurologist interpreted these results. I do not see any evidence here for a motor neuron disease.
Sincerely, Dr. Gehring
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