EMG myokymia as a cause of ptosis in hypothyroidism

Eur J Neurol. 2003 Jan;10(1):87-90. doi: 10.1046/j.1468-1331.2003.00544.x.

Abstract

Ptosis is known to be associated with thyroid disorders. We describe two biochemically corrected hypothyroid patients presenting with isolated bilateral ptosis. EMG of the orbicularis oculi showed continuous grouped motor unit potentials. In the absence of obvious aetiology, it is hypothesised that focal demyelination of terminal branches to the orbicularis oculi may play a role in the generation of the discharges.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Blepharoptosis / diagnosis*
  • Blepharoptosis / etiology
  • Blepharoptosis / physiopathology
  • Electromyography / methods
  • Facial Nerve Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Facial Nerve Diseases / etiology
  • Facial Nerve Diseases / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypothyroidism / complications
  • Hypothyroidism / diagnosis*
  • Hypothyroidism / physiopathology