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Title: Lhermitte's Phenomenon

Category: Neurology

Keywords: MS, multiple sclerosis, lhermitte's phenomenon, sensory symptom (PubMed Search)

Posted: 12/15/2010 by Aisha Liferidge, MD

  • Lhermitte's phenomenon is a transient, sensory symptom which likens an electric shock that radiates down the spine or into the limbs.

 

  • The sensation is triggered by neck flexion.  The frequency with which they occur varies and the slightest movement of the head or neck may trigger it.

 

  • This phenomenon occurs most frequently with multiple sclerosis, but can also be seen with other lesions of the cervical cord, including tumors, disc herniation, post-radiation myelopathy, and following trauma.

References

  • Kanchandani R, Howe JG.  "Lhermitte's sign in multiple sclerosis: a clinical survey and review of the literature." Journal of Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 1982;45(4):308-12.

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