| "> | | | | strains of streptococcal bacteria (i.e., group A |
| Sydenham's chorea is a neurologic movement disorder | | | | beta-hemolytic streptococci). |
| characterized by irregular, abrupt, relatively rapid | | | | Chorea is an irregular, rapid, uncontrolled, involuntary, |
| involuntary movements (i.e., chorea) of muscles of the | | | | excessive movement that seems to move randomly |
| face, neck, trunk, and arms and legs (limbs). Additional | | | | from one part of the body to another. The affected |
| findings often include diminished muscle tone | | | | child often appears fidgety or restless and unable to sit |
| (hypotonia), muscle weakness, and emotional and | | | | still. The word "chorea" comes from the Greek word |
| behavioral disturbances, particularly | | | | for dance. The jerky movements of the feet or hands |
| obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Sydenham's chorea | | | | are often similar to dancing or piano playing. When |
| most frequently occurs in children or adolescents | | | | chorea is severe, the movements may cause motion |
| between the ages of 5 to 15 following acute rheumatic | | | | of the arms or legs that results in throwing whatever is |
| fever (ARF). ARF is an inflammatory disease that | | | | in the hand or falling to the ground. |
| develops subsequent to throat infection with certain | | | | |