Asterixis

Pract Neurol. 2017 Jan;17(1):60-62. doi: 10.1136/practneurol-2016-001393. Epub 2016 Nov 2.

Abstract

Adams and Foley described asterixis in the 1940s in patients with hepatic encephalopathy, but it has since been associated with a wide range of potential causes, both in neurology and general medicine. Here, we review the history, characteristics and clinical significance of this important clinical sign.

Keywords: MYOCLONUS; asterixis; encephalopathy; hepatic encephalopathy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Dyskinesias / diagnosis*
  • Dyskinesias / physiopathology*
  • Dyskinesias / therapy
  • Electromyography / methods
  • Humans
  • Liver Diseases / diagnosis
  • Liver Diseases / physiopathology
  • Liver Diseases / therapy
  • Renal Insufficiency / diagnosis
  • Renal Insufficiency / physiopathology
  • Renal Insufficiency / therapy