D2I2.
genetic

Myotonia congenita

Myotonia congenita is a channelopathy that affects muscles. It is a disorder. The hallmark of the disease is the failure of initiated contraction to terminate, often referred to as delayed relaxation of the muscles (myotonia) and rigidity. Symptoms include delayed relaxation of the muscles after voluntary contraction (myotonia), and may also include stiffness, hypertrophy (enlargement), transient weakness in some forms of the disorder, severe masseter spasm, and cramping. The condition is sometimes referred to as fainting goat , as it is responsible for the eponymous 'fainting' seen in fainting goats when presented with a sudden stimulus. Of note, myotonia congenita is associated with increased risk of hyperthermia (MH) during general anaesthetic.

Underlined words are explained — tap any of them.

Symptoms — what it feels like

  • ·Delayed relaxation of muscles, falls, difficulty swallowing

Causes — why it happens

  • ·, CLCN1

How it's found

  • ·, testing

Treatment

  • ·Physiotherapy, medication
Plain-language summary adapted from Wikipedia. Not medical advice.