Etymed
chorea
Definition
A movement disorder characterized by involuntary, irregular, non-rhythmic movements
Clinical context
A 28-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of involuntary facial movements and jerky limb movements that have been progressively worsening over the past 2 weeks. She is unable to maintain sustained postures and her movements appear dance-like. Her family history is positive for similar symptoms in her maternal aunt. On examination, she has prominent choreiform movements that worsen with voluntary movement but improve during sleep.
Mnemonic
CHAOS - Chorea Hurts, Attacks, Overpowers, Occurs, and Scares
These morphemes also unlock…
- chore/o — dance