Neurophysiological classification of myoclonus

Myoclonus is defined as a brief, jerky movements of one or several muscular groups, generated in the central nervous system. Myoclonus can be the manifestation of an extensive variety of pathological conditions with different anatomical substrates and physiopathological mechanisms.

According to the physiopathology, four myoclonus types are distinguished: cortical, subcortical, corticosubcortical and spinal myoclonus. Its generators, and the neurophysiological approaches are discussed.

CITATION  Rev Neurol. 1999 Feb 1-15;28(3):272-7