How Do You Spell HABIT CHOREA?

1. Habit chorea, also known as psychogenic chorea, is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, rapid, and irregular movements that resemble those seen in true chorea. These movements are not due to any structural brain lesions or known organic causes but are believed to be influenced by psychological factors.

   The term "habit" refers to the repetitive nature of the movements, as they often occur in response to specific triggers or situations. Patients with habit chorea may exhibit a wide range of movement patterns, including jerking, twisting, writhing, or flailing of the limbs, face, or other body parts. These movements can be intermittent or continuous and are typically exacerbated by stress, anxiety, or emotional distress.

   Although habit chorea is considered a functional disorder, it is important to note that it is not under conscious control, meaning affected individuals cannot voluntarily stop or suppress the movements. This differentiates it from intentional or feigned movements seen in malingering or factitious disorders.

   The underlying mechanisms of habit chorea are not fully understood, but it is believed to arise from a combination of psychological, emotional, and neurobiological factors. It is often considered a conversion disorder, where emotional distress or psychological conflicts manifest as physical symptoms.

   Due to its psychogenic nature, treatment for habit chorea primarily focuses on psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and stress management techniques. Psychoeducation and providing reassurance to the patient are also important parts of the management plan. In some cases, pharmacological interventions, such as anxiolytics or antidepressants, may be considered to address co-existing psychological conditions that may contribute to the movements.

2. Tic, the frequent involuntary repetition of the same movement.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for HABIT CHOREA

The term "Habit Chorea" is derived from two different sources: "habit" and "chorea".

The word "habit" originates from the Latin word "habitus", which means "condition" or "state". Over time, it came to refer to a usual or customary behavior or practice. In the context of "Habit Chorea", "habit" refers to an involuntary repetitive movement that becomes a habitual or customary feature of a person's behavior.

The word "chorea" is derived from the Greek word "choreia", which means "dance". In medical terminology, "chorea" refers to a movement disorder characterized by involuntary, brief, and irregular muscle contractions. These movements resemble dance-like or writhing motions, hence the association with the Greek term for "dance".