[Clinical analysis of 30 cases of stiff-man syndrome].

Abstract

Thirty cases of SMS, including 22 cases reported previously in China, were analysed clinically manifested by involvement of neck and facial muscles, slurred speech, dysphagia or dyspnea, exaggerated tendon reflexes, ankle clonus and/or Hoffmann's sign. Half of them had past history of infection. Five out of 18 CSF examined showed elevation of protein content, immunoglobulin and white cell count, suggesting the presence of inflammation or demyelination changes in CNS. The pathology of the syndrome is probably located in the spinal cord or brain stem. The criteria for diagnosis are proposed. For treatment, the dosage and way of administration of diazepam should be judged according to the severeness of the disease; nitrazepam and clonazepam are effective, too.