Difference between revisions of "Hemimasticatory spasm"

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[[File:Spasmo emimasticatorio.jpg|200px|left]]
 
This chapter explores the challenging and intricate diagnostic pathway of a patient referred to as Mary Poppins, who endured a decade-long journey towards a definitive diagnosis of 'Hemimasticatory Spasm'. The narrative underscores the complexity inherent in medical diagnostics when multiple specializations intersect, such as neurology and dentistry, compounded further by an involvement of dermatology diagnosing 'Morfea'. This case exemplifies the pitfalls of traditional diagnostic approaches that often overlook the nuanced interplay of systemic and neurological factors.
 
Mary Poppins' case illustrates the inherent difficulties in medical diagnostics, particularly when symptoms overlap across different medical fields. Initially presenting with symptoms typical of masticatory disorders, her journey was complicated by the appearance of skin symptoms, leading to a dermatological diagnosis of Morfea, a localized form of scleroderma. This intersection of symptoms posed significant challenges in identifying the underlying cause of her condition, demonstrating the need for a holistic approach to patient care. The chapter advocates for the adoption of mathematical models in medical diagnostics to reduce ambiguity and enhance precision. This approach is posited as a solution to the often vague and subjective nature of traditional diagnostic processes, which can lead to significant delays in identifying and treating conditions like Hemimasticatory Spasm. By applying formal mathematical languages, clinicians can better decode the complex signals of neuromotor disorders, leading to quicker and more accurate diagnoses.
 
Hemimasticatory Spasm is discussed in detail, emphasizing its differentiation from Hemifacial Spasm. The condition is described as a neuromotor disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions on one side of the face, which can be mistaken for other types of facial spasms. The text delineates the diagnostic criteria and treatment modalities, highlighting the importance of precise and targeted therapeutic approaches to manage such neuromotor disorders effectively. The narrative incorporates philosophical and epistemological perspectives, drawing on Thomas Kuhn's theory of scientific paradigms to contextualize resistance to new diagnostic methods within the dental field. This resistance is portrayed as a barrier to adopting innovative approaches that integrate insights from quantum mechanics and other advanced scientific frameworks into dental diagnostics.
 
The reliance on statistical significance in medical research is critically examined, with the text advocating for a shift towards probabilistic models that better accommodate the complexities of biological phenomena. This section argues for a departure from deterministic models, suggesting that quantum mechanics offers a valuable framework for understanding the probabilistic nature of disease processes and treatment outcomes.
 
The chapter proposes a significant paradigm shift in dental diagnostics from a mechanical interpretation of dental conditions like malocclusions to an integrated, system-oriented approach. This new paradigm would incorporate neurophysiological insights, enhancing the ability to diagnose and treat dental and masticatory disorders more effectively. The integration of neurophysiological data into dental diagnostics is proposed as a method to enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of treatments. By understanding the interactions between various bodily systems and the masticatory system, dental professionals can develop more personalized treatment plans that address the underlying causes of dental issues rather than just the symptoms.
 
In conclusion, this chapter calls for a reevaluation of current diagnostic practices within the field of dentistry to include a more nuanced understanding of the interconnections between dental health and overall physiological and neurological health. By embracing interdisciplinary approaches and leveraging advanced scientific theories, dental professionals can significantly improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes for complex cases like that of Mary Poppins.<blockquote>
== Keywords ==
'''Hemimasticatory Spasm''' - A neuromotor disorder characterized by involuntary, unilateral contractions of the masticatory muscles, which was the definitive diagnosis after a decade of investigative diagnostics for Mary Poppins.
 
'''Diagnostic Complexity''' - Refers to the challenges and intricacies in diagnosing conditions that overlap multiple medical specialties, exemplified by the intersection of neurology, dentistry, and dermatology in Mary Poppins' case.
 
'''Mathematical Models in Diagnostics''' - Advocates for the use of formal mathematical languages and models to reduce ambiguity and improve accuracy in the diagnostic process, especially relevant in complex cases like neuromotor disorders.
 
'''Neuromotor Disorders''' - Disorders involving the motor nerves that may manifest with involuntary movements or spasms, crucial for understanding diseases like Hemimasticatory Spasm and Hemifacial Spasm.
 
'''Philosophical and Epistemological Perspectives''' - Discusses the impact of philosophical theories, such as Kuhn's paradigm theory, on the acceptance and integration of new diagnostic methods in medical practice.
 
'''Statistical Significance in Medicine''' - Critiques the traditional reliance on statistical significance in medical diagnostics and research, promoting a shift towards more nuanced probabilistic models.
 
'''Quantum Mechanics in Dentistry''' - Explores the application of principles from quantum mechanics to rethink and enhance diagnostic approaches in dentistry, moving away from deterministic to probabilistic models.
 
'''System-Oriented Diagnostic Approach''' - Suggests a shift from viewing dental issues like malocclusions merely as mechanical problems to understanding them within a broader, system-oriented context that includes neurophysiological factors.
 
'''Neurophysiological Integration in Dentistry''' - The incorporation of neurophysiological data into the diagnostic and treatment processes in dentistry, aiming to improve the precision and effectiveness of dental care.
 
'''Interdisciplinary Approach in Medical Diagnostics''' - Emphasizes the importance of integrating knowledge and techniques from various disciplines to enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes, especially in complex medical cases.</blockquote>{{ArtBy|
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'''Abstract:''' This chapter introduces the complex diagnostic pathway to identify the condition known as "Hemimasticatory Spasm" in the case of a patient referred to as "Mary Poppins." While diagnosing this neuromotor disorder may not be overly complex, differentiating it from other conditions such as Hemifacial Spasm or pathologies of the central and peripheral nervous systems is critical for guiding appropriate treatment.
The chapter begins by examining involuntary movement disorders induced by trauma to cranial or peripheral nerves, referencing studies that highlight the involvement of central nervous system pathologies. Special attention is given to conditions like vestibular and trigeminal schwannomas, as well as other rare cases such as tumors affecting facial and masticatory functions. Further complexity arises when considering multiple sclerosis and pleomorphic adenoma as potential sources of trigeminal reflex anomalies, all of which require careful differentiation.
Additionally, the discussion explores conditions like scleroderma, with particular emphasis on Morphea, which is identified in the patient. The possibility of Morphea-induced Hemimasticatory Spasm is discussed based on trigeminal nerve clinical and electrophysiological findings. The role of electrical excitatory activities, both normal and ephaptic, is considered a significant contributor to abnormal involuntary muscle movements.
The chapter concludes by introducing "ephaptic transmission" as the key to understanding the abnormal communication phenomena in Hemimasticatory Spasm. Ephaptic transmission, a complex form of electrical signaling between neurons, is explored as part of the diagnostic process, providing a foundation for understanding the electrical dynamics underlying the condition. This crucial concept will be examined in greater detail in a subsequent chapter focused on the two forms of electrical transmission between neurons.


==Introduction ==
==Introduction to the Hemimasticatory Spasm==
Before getting into the heart of the discussion regarding the pathology of our patient Mary Poppins, what from the previous chapters seems to be of a neuromotry type and in particular a 'Hemimasticatory Spasm' we should focus on some points to determine the process of decryption of the signal.  
Before getting into the heart of the discussion regarding the pathology of our patient Mary Poppins, what from the previous chapters seems to be of a neuromotry type and in particular a 'Hemimasticatory Spasm' we should focus on some points to determine the process of decryption of the signal.  


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</ref>, which can be explored in depth in the sub-chapter of Masticationpedia '[[Intermittent facial spasms as the presenting sign of a recurrent pleomorphic adenoma]]' in which the authors confirm that to date the development of facial spasms has not been reported in parotid neoplasms. The most common etiologies for hemifacial spasm are vascular compression of the facial nerve ipsilateral to the cerebellopontine angle (defined as primary or idiopathic) (62%), hereditary (2%), secondary to Bell's palsy or facial nerve injury (17 %) and imitators of hemifacial spasms (psychogenic, tics, dystonia, myoclonus, myokymia, myorrhythmia and hemimasticatory spasm) (17%).
</ref>, which can be explored in depth in the sub-chapter of Masticationpedia '[[Intermittent facial spasms as the presenting sign of a recurrent pleomorphic adenoma]]' in which the authors confirm that to date the development of facial spasms has not been reported in parotid neoplasms. The most common etiologies for hemifacial spasm are vascular compression of the facial nerve ipsilateral to the cerebellopontine angle (defined as primary or idiopathic) (62%), hereditary (2%), secondary to Bell's palsy or facial nerve injury (17 %) and imitators of hemifacial spasms (psychogenic, tics, dystonia, myoclonus, myokymia, myorrhythmia and hemimasticatory spasm) (17%).


===Scleroderma===
===Scleroderma ===
Tiago Nardi Amaral et al.<ref>Tiago Nardi Amaral, Fernando Augusto Peres, Aline Tamires Lapa, João Francisco Marques-Neto, Simone Appenzeller. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23827688/ Neurologic involvement in scleroderma: a systematic review] Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2013 Dec;43(3):335-47. doi: 10.1016/ j.semarthrit. 2013.05.002. Epub 2013 Jul 1.</ref> described the clinical characteristics, neuroimaging, and treatment of neurological involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and localized scleroderma (LS) through a systematic review   
Tiago Nardi Amaral et al.<ref>Tiago Nardi Amaral, Fernando Augusto Peres, Aline Tamires Lapa, João Francisco Marques-Neto, Simone Appenzeller. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23827688/ Neurologic involvement in scleroderma: a systematic review] Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2013 Dec;43(3):335-47. doi: 10.1016/ j.semarthrit. 2013.05.002. Epub 2013 Jul 1.</ref> described the clinical characteristics, neuroimaging, and treatment of neurological involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and localized scleroderma (LS) through a systematic review   


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A total of 182 case reports/studies addressing SSc and 50 reporting LS were identified. The total number of patients with SSc was 9,506, while data were available on 224 patients with LS. In LS, convulsions (41.58%) and headache (18.81%) predominated. However, descriptions of various cranial nerve involvement and hemiparesis have been made. Central Nervous System involvement in SSc was characterized by headache (23.73%), seizures (13.56%), and cognitive impairment (8.47%). Depression and anxiety were frequently observed (73.15% and 23.95%, respectively). Myopathy (51.8%), trigeminal neuropathy (16.52%), peripheral sensorimotor polyneuropathy (14.25%), and carpal tunnel syndrome (6.56%) were the most frequent peripheral nervous system involvement in SSc. Autonomic neuropathy involving the cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems has been regularly described. The treatment of nervous system involvement, however, varied from case to case. However, in more severe cases corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide were usually prescribed.<blockquote>But this is not all because there are some variants of scleroderma such as Morphea diagnosed in our poor patient Mary Poppins who among other things did not respond positively to cortisone therapy.</blockquote>
A total of 182 case reports/studies addressing SSc and 50 reporting LS were identified. The total number of patients with SSc was 9,506, while data were available on 224 patients with LS. In LS, convulsions (41.58%) and headache (18.81%) predominated. However, descriptions of various cranial nerve involvement and hemiparesis have been made. Central Nervous System involvement in SSc was characterized by headache (23.73%), seizures (13.56%), and cognitive impairment (8.47%). Depression and anxiety were frequently observed (73.15% and 23.95%, respectively). Myopathy (51.8%), trigeminal neuropathy (16.52%), peripheral sensorimotor polyneuropathy (14.25%), and carpal tunnel syndrome (6.56%) were the most frequent peripheral nervous system involvement in SSc. Autonomic neuropathy involving the cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems has been regularly described. The treatment of nervous system involvement, however, varied from case to case. However, in more severe cases corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide were usually prescribed.<blockquote>But this is not all because there are some variants of scleroderma such as Morphea diagnosed in our poor patient Mary Poppins who among other things did not respond positively to cortisone therapy.</blockquote>


====Morphea====
====Morphea ====
Morphea is a form of scleroderma that involves isolated patches of hardened skin on the face, hands and feet, or anywhere else on the body, without involvement of internal organs. Morphea most often presents as macules or plaques a few centimeters in diameter, but can also present as bands or in guttate lesions or nodules.<ref>James, William; Berger, Timothy; Elston, Dirk (2005). ''Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology''. (10th ed.). Saunders. Page 171. <nowiki>ISBN 0-7216-2921-0</nowiki>.</ref> Morphea is a thickening and hardening of the skin and subcutaneous tissues due to excessive collagen deposition . Morphea encompasses specific conditions ranging from very small plaques involving only the skin to widespread disease causing functional and cosmetic deformities. Morphea is distinguished from systemic sclerosis by its presumed lack of involvement of internal organs.<ref>James, William; Berger, Timothy; Elston, Dirk (2005). ''Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology''. (10th ed.). Saunders. Page 171. <nowiki>ISBN 0-7216-2921-0</nowiki>.</ref>
Morphea is a form of scleroderma that involves isolated patches of hardened skin on the face, hands and feet, or anywhere else on the body, without involvement of internal organs. Morphea most often presents as macules or plaques a few centimeters in diameter, but can also present as bands or in guttate lesions or nodules.<ref>James, William; Berger, Timothy; Elston, Dirk (2005). ''Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology''. (10th ed.). Saunders. Page 171. <nowiki>ISBN 0-7216-2921-0</nowiki>.</ref> Morphea is a thickening and hardening of the skin and subcutaneous tissues due to excessive collagen deposition . Morphea encompasses specific conditions ranging from very small plaques involving only the skin to widespread disease causing functional and cosmetic deformities. Morphea is distinguished from systemic sclerosis by its presumed lack of involvement of internal organs.<ref>James, William; Berger, Timothy; Elston, Dirk (2005). ''Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology''. (10th ed.). Saunders. Page 171. <nowiki>ISBN 0-7216-2921-0</nowiki>.</ref>


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