Significance of dystonic tremor as a possible predictor of depression in patients with cervical dystonia

Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 2025;125(9):37-41. doi: 10.17116/jnevro202512509137.

ABSTRACT

Cervical dystonia (CD) is an urgent problem in neurology and healthcare in general. One of the CD manifestations is head tremor, which affects up to 60% of patients. Dystonic tremor is a spontaneous, oscillatory, rhythmic, and unstable patterned movement resulting from contractions of dystonic muscles, often exacerbated by an attempt to maintain the primary (normal) posture. Head tremor is a separate issue for patients diagnosed with CD. Physical difficulties and emotional experiences are different in CD patients with and without tremor. Patients with CD often face limitations in their daily lives, including difficulties with performing work duties, managing the household, and participating in social activities. It is especially true for the working-age population, since the disease often develops in people aged 30-50 years. CD, especially with dystonic tremor, is associated with severe adverse emotional experiences of patients, anxiety, and depression due to a visible ailment, resulting in self-stigmatization. Psychological difficulties and a negative perception of their appearance and condition also contribute to the social isolation of patients, which makes the disease not only physical, but also psychosocial. The quality of life reflects the significance of non-motor dystonia symptoms, including depression.

PMID:41051804 | DOI:10.17116/jnevro202512509137