How Do You Spell PSEUDOCHOREA?

1. Pseudochorea, also known as choreaform movement disorder, is a rare neurological condition characterized by involuntary, abrupt, and purposeless movements that resemble chorea. Chorea refers to the occurrence of rapid, irregular, and jerky movements, typically affecting the limbs, face, and trunk. However, in the case of pseudochorea, these movements appear choreic but are not true chorea.

   Pseudochorea is often associated with various underlying medical conditions, including metabolic disorders, toxic states, neurodegenerative diseases, or structural abnormalities within the brain. Some metabolic disorders that can cause pseudochorea include Wilson's disease, hyperthyroidism, or hypoparathyroidism. Additionally, toxic states induced by drugs, alcohol, or exposure to certain toxins may also lead to pseudochorea.

   The movements observed in pseudochorea are considered "pseudo" because they lack the typical characteristic features of true chorea, such as a constant change of velocity or irregularity in pattern. Instead, the movements seen in pseudochorea tend to be more stereotypic and predictable.

   The diagnosis of pseudochorea often requires a comprehensive evaluation, including a thorough medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests to identify the underlying cause. The treatment of pseudochorea mainly focuses on managing the underlying condition responsible for the movement disorder. In some cases, medications that target the specific cause or symptoms may be prescribed to help alleviate the abnormal movements.

   Overall, pseudochorea is a distinct movement disorder characterized by chorea-like movements that are not true chorea. It typically arises as a result of an underlying medical condition and requires proper diagnosis and management of the associated cause.

2. A spasmodic affection or extensive tic resembling chorea.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PSEUDOCHOREA

The word "pseudochorea" is derived from two components: "pseudo" and "chorea".

1. "Pseudo": This comes from the Greek word "pseudes" (ψευδής) which means "false" or "deceptive". It is commonly used as a prefix in English to indicate something that is not genuine or true.

2. "Chorea": This term has its roots in the Greek word "khoreia" (χορεία), which refers to a type of involuntary movement disorder. "Chorea" is typically associated with uncoordinated, jerky, and random movements of the body.

Therefore, "pseudochorea" combines these two elements to describe a condition characterized by the presence of false or deceptive movements resembling chorea.