[Stiff-person syndrome; the diagnostic challenges of a treatable condition].

Abstract

Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) is a rare immune-mediated neurological condition, characterized by ambulatory problems and falls, muscle hypertonia and spasms, and debilitating task-specific phobias. The diagnostic delay is often significant due to physicians not recognizing SPS and due to misdiagnoses such as a functional neurological disorder or a psychiatric condition. In this article, we present a case of a patient with SPS. We discuss the clinical characteristics and propose ways to recognize SPS sooner in patients presenting with falls or muscle spasms. The aim of this article is to increase awareness for SPS. An early diagnosis is important, as SPS is a treatable condition.