What is the blood test for stiff person syndrome?
A definitive diagnosis can be made with a blood test that measures the level of glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antibodies in the blood. People with SPS have elevated levels of GAD, an antibody that works against an enzyme involved in the synthesis of an important neurotransmitter in the brain.
Can stiff person syndrome go into remission?
Two female patients achieved clinical remission from the rare, debilitating neurological disease called stiff person syndrome (SPS, which can be marked by a ‘tin soldier’ gait) after an autologous — from your own body — stem cell transplant that eventually allowed them to return to work and regain their previous …
What are triggers for stiff person syndrome?
The main symptoms of Stiff Person Syndrome are muscle stiffening in the torso and limbs, along with episodes of violent muscle spasms. These can be triggered by environmental stimuli (like loud noises) or emotional stress. The muscle spasms can be so severe that they cause the person to fall down.
Is Stiff Person Syndrome life threatening?
Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is considered dangerous in babies because they generally meet unfortunate and untimely death within a few months. The normal lifespan of a grown adult can be stated as 50 years (if symptoms start early).
Why am I getting stiffer?
Muscle stiffness typically occurs after exercise, hard physical work, or lifting weights. You may also feel stiffness after periods of inactivity, like when you get out of bed in the morning or get out of a chair after sitting for a long time. Sprains and strains are the most common reasons for muscle stiffness.
Is Stiff Person Syndrome a disability?
Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.
Is Stiff Person Syndrome painful?
In most people with stiff person syndrome, the trunk and abdomen muscles are the first to become stiff and enlarged. Symptoms include pain, muscle stiffness and aching discomfort. Early on, stiffness may come and go but eventually the stiffness remains constant.
How do you reduce body stiffness?
To decrease muscle stiffness, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation, try the following:
- make time for regular exercise.
- stretch before and after exercise.
- take warm baths.
- massage sore areas.