Polyphase rate
August 8, 2019 | 35,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring
Dear Dr. Gehring,
I suffer from generalized fasciculations. EMGs have been inconspicuous so far, now with persistent fasciculation in the right calf there are no spontaneous activities, but a slightly increased polyphasic rate in the myotome at the right calf. My concern is that this, in addition to fasciculations, may indicate an early symptom of a motor neuron disease.
I would be very grateful for an explanation.
Kind regards
Good day,
This cannot be interpreted like this! For example, in cases of acute metabolic myopathy, such as muscle soreness, the polyphasic rate is increased. Prolonged fasciculations can be the sole cause of metabolic changes in the calf muscle.
Benign fasciculations are quite common (BFS, benign fasciculation syndrome). Motor neuron diseases are not only associated with fasciculations, but also with paralysis, which hopefully has not been found in your case. Since paralysis usually occurs before fasciculations, I would not be worried.
Instead of repeatedly conducting measurements that may cause further anxiety, I would suggest trying to relax the autonomic nervous system through techniques such as autogenic training or Tai Chi. It may be more beneficial to focus on therapy rather than further diagnosis.
Warm regards, Dr. Gehring
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