Palatal myoclonus

Palatal myoclonus is a fast spasm (contraction) of the muscles in the roof of the mouth.

Causes

It is usually due to damage (lesions) on brain nerve pathways, including multiple sclerosis.

Symptoms

  • Clicking in the ear
  • Popping in the ear

References

Jankovic J, Shannon KM. Movement disorders. In: Bradley WG, Daroff RB, Fenichel GM, Jankovic J, eds. Neurology in Clinical Practice. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Butterworth-Heinemann;2008:chap 75.

Updated: 4/23/2012

Reviewed by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; and Seth Schwartz, MD, MPH, Otolaryngologist, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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