stereotypic movement disorder

Stereotypic Movement Disorder (SMD) Description

Stereotypic Movement Disorder (SMD) is a motor disorder that involves repetitive, purposeless movements in children and adults. These movements can be rhythmic or non-rhythmic, and are often characterized by their predictability and location on the body.

Types of Movements

Examples of SMD movements include:

• Hand waving
• Body rocking
• Head banging
• Self-biting
• Nodding (side to side, up and down, or shoulder to shoulder)

These movements can be repetitive and purposeless, but are often associated with periods of engrossment or enjoyment. In some cases, the movements may result in self-injury.

Prevalence

SMD is more common among boys than girls, and the movements often increase with stress, frustration, and boredom. The cause of this disorder, when it doesn't occur with other conditions, is unknown.

Age of Onset

SMD typically develops in childhood, before grade school, and can continue into adulthood. In some cases, the symptoms may improve as the child gets older.

References:

• [1] SMD is a motor disorder that involves repetitive, purposeless movements (Source: #5)
• [2] Examples of SMD movements include hand waving, body rocking, and head banging (Source: #7)
• [3] SMD is more common among boys than girls (Source: #13)

Common Signs and Symptoms of Stereotypic Movement Disorder

Stereotypic movement disorder (SMD) is characterized by repetitive, seemingly driven, and nonfunctional motor behavior. The symptoms can vary from person to person but often include:

• Repetitive movements such as hand shaking or waving, body rocking, head banging, mouthing of objects, self-biting, hitting own body
• Body rocking: a rhythmic movement where the individual rocks their body back and forth
• Hand flapping or hand waving: a repetitive movement of the hands, often accompanied by other stereotypic behaviors
• Head banging: a repetitive movement where the individual bangs their head against a surface
• Self-hitting: hitting one's own body, often on the arms, legs, or torso
• Nail biting: biting one's nails repeatedly
• Skin picking: picking at one's skin, often accompanied by other stereotypic behaviors

These symptoms can be distressing for both the individual and their loved ones. It is essential to seek professional help from a qualified healthcare provider if you suspect someone may have SMD.

References

• [4] Motor stereotypies (also called stereotypic movement disorder), are rhythmic, fixed movements that do not seem to have a purpose, but are predictable in pattern and location on the body.
• [7] Signs and symptoms of stereotypies · Repetitive movements, like hand flapping, body rocking, head nodding or hair twirling occurring at times of strong emotions ...
• [8] Symptoms · Biting self · Hand shaking or waving · Head banging · Hitting own body · Mouthing of objects · Nail biting · Rocking ...
• [9] Signs and Symptoms · Body rocking · Hand flapping or hand waving · Head banging · Self-hitting · Self-biting · Nail biting · Skin picking · Mouthing or biting of ...

Diagnostic Tests for Stereotypic Movement Disorder

Stereotypic movement disorder (SMD) is a condition characterized by repetitive, seemingly driven, and apparently purposeless motor behavior. While there are no specific tests to diagnose SMD, various diagnostic tools can help rule out other causes of the symptoms.

• Physical Exam: A healthcare provider can usually diagnose SMD with a physical exam [4][7]. The exam may involve observing the individual's movements and assessing their overall health.
• Lab Tests: Lab tests are used to evaluate individuals with secondary forms of motor stereotypies, which may be associated with underlying medical conditions [3].
• Imaging Services: Imaging services such as MRI scans, CT scans, X-rays, ultrasounds, and screening mammograms can help rule out other causes of the symptoms [11][14]. However, these tests are not specific to SMD.
• No Specific Tests Required: Motor stereotypes are diagnosed by a Paediatrician or Neurologist without requiring any specific tests [8].

It's essential to note that a correct diagnosis is crucial for proper treatment. A healthcare provider may use various diagnostic tools and techniques to rule out other conditions and provide an accurate diagnosis.

References:

[3] Katherine M. Stereotypic movement disorders. Semin Pediatr Neurol. 2018 [4] Apr 17, 2024 — Stereotypic movement disorder is a condition in ... [7] Oct 3, 2024 — A health care provider can usually diagnose this condition with a physical exam. [8] How are stereotypies diagnosed? Motor stereotypes are diagnosed by a Paediatrician or Neurologist. No specific tests are required to diagnose them. [11] CIS is a joint venture between Charlotte Radiology and Atrium Health, offering high-quality imaging services with the latest in technology. [14] Novant Health Imaging Museum offers imaging services: MRI scans, CT scans, X-rays, ultrasounds & screening mammograms.

The differential diagnosis of stereotypic movement disorder involves ruling out other psychiatric conditions that may present with similar symptoms. According to various sources [1, 3, 6, 9], the main differential diagnoses for stereotypic movement disorder include:

• Tic disorders: These are characterized by repetitive, rhythmic movements or vocalizations, and can be a common misdiagnosis in patients with stereotypic movement disorder [1, 9].
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): This condition involves recurring, intrusive thoughts and compulsions to perform specific rituals or behaviors, which can sometimes manifest as repetitive motor behaviors [6, 11].
• Autism spectrum disorders: Stereotypic movements may be a presenting symptom of autism spectrum disorder, making differential diagnosis challenging in developmentally disabled individuals who cannot verbally describe the mental or physical phenomena accompanying the repetitive behaviors [11].

Additionally, other conditions that feature repetitive behaviors should also be considered in the differential diagnosis, such as:

• Motor mannerisms: These are repetitive motor behaviors that do not significantly interfere with daily life and are often seen in normal children [1].
• Compulsion and habit: These can sometimes manifest as repetitive motor behaviors, although they typically have a clear purpose or function [6].

It's worth noting that the differential diagnosis of stereotypic movement disorder requires careful consideration of the individual's medical history, behavior patterns, and any underlying neurodevelopmental disorders [3].