Dancing eye syndrome: Treatment for OMS often involves immunotherapy to suppress the misguided immune response.
(Image: Canva)Dancing eye syndrome, medically known as opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome (OMS), is a rare neurological disorder characterised by rapid, involuntary eye movements (opsoclonus) and muscle jerks (myoclonus).
CausesStory continues below Advertisement Remove AdThe etiology of dancing eye syndrome is multifaceted, involving both autoimmune and paraneoplastic mechanisms, says Dr C Sharat Babu, managing partner and Sr cataract and refractive surgeon Sharat, Maxivision Eye hospital.
Dancing eye syndrome is not typically fatal however, its impact on quality of life can be profound.
Dancing eye syndrome awareness of its causes and symptoms is essential for early diagnosis and intervention, which are critical in improving the prognosis and quality of life for affected individuals, says Dr Babu.
Dancing eye syndrome: Treatment for OMS often involves immunotherapy to suppress the misguided immune response. (Image: Canva)
Dancing eye syndrome, medically known as opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome (OMS), is a rare neurological disorder characterised by rapid, involuntary eye movements (opsoclonus) and muscle jerks (myoclonus). Often affecting young children, this syndrome presents a variety of symptoms that can be both physically and cognitively debilitating. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and potential outcomes of OMS is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management.
Causes
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The etiology of dancing eye syndrome is multifaceted, involving both autoimmune and paraneoplastic mechanisms, says Dr C Sharat Babu, managing partner and Sr cataract and refractive surgeon Sharat, Maxivision Eye hospital.
The most common cause in children is a neuroblastoma, a type of cancer that originates in nerve tissues. The immune system’s response to the tumor can mistakenly target the nervous system, leading to OMS. In adults, OMS is frequently associated with cancers such as breast or lung cancer.
Besides paraneoplastic causes, viral infections have also been implicated in the onset of OMS. The immune response triggered by an infection can led to similar autoimmune reactions, attacking the nervous system, says Dr Babu. Genetic predispositions and other autoimmune disorders can also play a role in the development of this syndrome, although these are less common.
Symptoms
The hallmark symptom of OMS is opsoclonus, characterised by rapid, chaotic eye movements that occur in all directions and are often triggered by visual stimuli or attempts to focus, says Dr Babu. These movements are involuntary and uncontrollable, causing significant visual disturbances and difficulty in maintaining gaze.
Myoclonus, another primary symptom, involves sudden, brief muscle jerks affecting various parts of the body. These jerks can interfere with movement and coordination, making tasks such as walking, writing, or holding objects challenging. Additionally, ataxia, or a lack of muscle control and coordination, is commonly observed in patients with OMS, further contributing to motor difficulties.
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Cognitive and behavioural symptoms are also prominent in OMS, says Dr Babu. Children may experience developmental delays, irritability, sleep disturbances, and difficulty with speech and communication. These symptoms can have long-term effects on a child’s educational and social development.
Prognosis: Is it fatal?
Dancing eye syndrome is not typically fatal however, its impact on quality of life can be profound. The prognosis largely depends on the underlying cause and the promptness of treatment. When OMS is associated with a neuroblastoma or other cancer, the prognosis can improve significantly if the tumor is successfully treated or removed. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in minimising neurological damage and improving outcomes, suggests Dr Babu.
Treatment for OMS often involves immunotherapy to suppress the misguided immune response. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), corticosteroids, and rituximab are common treatments that can reduce inflammation and immune system activity. Plasmapheresis, a procedure to remove antibodies from the blood, is sometimes used in severe cases.
In some instances, symptoms may persist despite treatment, leading to chronic disability. Continuous physical, occupational, and speech therapy can help manage and mitigate these long-term effects, promoting better functional outcomes for patients.
Dancing eye syndrome awareness of its causes and symptoms is essential for early diagnosis and intervention, which are critical in improving the prognosis and quality of life for affected individuals, says Dr Babu.
With appropriate medical care and supportive therapies, many patients with OMS can achieve a good degree of recovery and lead fulfilling lives.
