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You are here : AllRefer.com > Health > Medical Symptoms Guide > Opisthotonos

Opisthotonos

Provided by A.D.A.M.

Definition

Overview & Considerations

Common Causes

Home Care & Treatment

Call your Health Care Provider if

What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office

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Definition

Opisthotonos is an abnormal posturing condition characterized by rigidity and severe arching of the back, with the head thrown backwards. This is such that if a person were laid on his or her back, only the back of the head and the heels would touch the supporting surface.

Overview & Considerations

Opisthotonos may occur in meningitis in infants, and it is a sign of irritation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meninges). It may occur as a posture reflective of depressed brain function or injury to the nervous system.

Opisthotonos is much more common in infants and children than in adults. It is also more exaggerated in infants and children. This is a reflection of the relative immaturity of their nervous systems.


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Definition
Opisthotonos: Overview & Considerations
Opisthotonos: Common Causes
Opisthotonos: Home Care & Treatment
Call your Health Care Provider if
What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office

Topics that might be of interest to you

Diseases & Conditions

Meningitis
Pituitary Dwarfism
Primary Brain Tumor
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Tetanus

Tests & Exams

Cranial CT Scan
CSF Collection
CSF Culture
MRI of the Head

Other Topics

Abnormal Posturing
Acute
Electrolytes
Head Injury
Physical Examination

Review Date : 10/23/2003
Reviewed By : Elaine T. Kiriakopoulos, M.D., M.Sc., Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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Page Last Updated: 19 Jul, 2008