Sydenham chorea is a movement disorder that occurs with rheumatic fever.

Causes

Sydenham chorea is one of the major signs of acute rheumatic fever. It is discussed here separately because it may be the only sign of rheumatic fever in some patients.

Sydenham chorea occurs most often in girls before puberty, but may be seen in boys.

Symptoms

• Changes in handwriting
• Jerky, uncontrollable, and purposeless movements in different muscle groups (looks like twitching)
• Loss of fine motor control, especially of the fingers and hands
• Loss of emotional control, with bouts of inappropriate crying or laughing
• Symptoms of rheumatic fever (see acute rheumatic fever)

Exams and Tests

There may be a history of sore throat for several weeks before Sydenham chorea.

Blood tests that may show signs of rheumatic fever include erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).

Different blood tests may be done to identify whether the child may have a strep infection.

Treatment

Antibiotics are given against streptococci, the bacteria that cause rheumatic fever. The health care provider may prescribe preventive antibiotics (antibiotic prophylaxis).

Supportive care is given as necessary to control symptoms of Sydenham chorea, especially the constant movements. Sedation may be advised in severe cases.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Sydenham chorea usually clears up in a few months. In rare cases, an unusual form of Sydenham chorea may begin later in life.

Possible Complications

No complications are expected.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if your child develops uncontrollable or jerky movements, especially if the child has recently had a sore throat.

Prevention

Pay careful attention to children's complaints of sore throats and get early treatment to prevent acute rheumatic fever. If there is a strong family history of rheumatic fever, be especially watchful, because your children may be more likely to develop this infection.

Alternative Names

St. Vitus dance