stiff-person syndrome

stiff-person syndrome

(stĭf′pûr′sən)n. An adult-onset neurological disorder characterized by muscle spasms and progressive muscle stiffness.

stiff-per·son syn·drome

(stif'pĕr-sŏn sin'drōm) A rare disorder manifested clinically by the continuous isometric contraction of many of the somatic muscles; contractions are usually forceful and painful and most frequently involve the trunk musculature, although limb muscles may be involved. This is an autoimmune disease, with circulating antibodies against the GABA-synthesizing enzyme and glutamic acid decarboxylase, among other types of antibodies present.