Focal childhood-onset, action induced primary hip dystonia treated with pallidal deep brain stimulation

Abstract

Focal proximal lower limb dystonias are rare. Unlike the adult form, focal lower limb dystonias in children usually become generalized. The condition is often unrecognized and the patient often receives orthopedic or psychiatric treatment for years before the diagnosis eventually made. Previously reported cases of isolated lower limb dystonias have been managed nonsurgically. We present a case of a childhood-onset action-induced primary hip dystonia that has remained focal even in adulthood and which responded successfully to pallidal deep brain stimulation. Additionally, our results suggest that neurons representing the leg lie within the most ventral aspect of the globus pallidus interna.