Palatal myoclonus in an otherwise normal boy

Summary

Palatal myoclonus is described in a boy who had no other signs of disease of the central nervous system.

The myoclonus ceased on deep inspiration and expiration. Thus it did not have the characteristics of an intention tremor.

It is suggested that the palatal myoclonus syndrome may show different manifestations in patients with cerebellar damage than in those in which the myoclonus is the only sign of nervous disease.

The myoclonus was initiated or made more evident by compression of the nares.