Disease or Syndrome
cataplexy
cat·a·plex·y [ kat-uh-plek-see ]
Subclass of:
Narcolepsy
Etymology:
Greek kata = down + plexis = a stroke
Definitions related to cataplexy:
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A condition characterized by transient weakness or paralysis of somatic musculature triggered by an emotional stimulus or physical exertion. Cataplexy is frequently associated with NARCOLEPSY. During a cataplectic attack, there is a marked reduction in muscle tone similar to the normal physiologic hypotonia that accompanies rapid eye movement sleep (SLEEP, REM). (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p396)NLM Medical Subject HeadingsU.S. National Library of Medicine, 2021
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A rare disorder characterized by sudden and transient episodes of loss of muscle tone. It often follows an experience of intense emotions. It is seen in patients with narcolepsy.NCI ThesaurusU.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
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A sudden and transient episode of bilateral loss of muscle tone, often triggered by emotions.Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO)The Human Phenotype Ontology Project, 2021
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Sudden paralysis of some or all muscles brought on by laughter, anger, fright, or strong emotions; a hallmark of narcolepsy.Harvard Dictionary of Health TermsHarvard Medical Publishing, 2011
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Temporary sudden loss of muscle tone, causing weakness and immobilization: can be precipitated by a variety of emotional states and is often followed by sleep. Commonly seen in narcolepsy.Sadock's Comprehensive Glossary of Psychiatry and PsychologyBJ Sadock Titles Press, 2012
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Transient attack of weakness precipitated by emotional excitement; patient falls as if struck down.CRISP ThesaurusNational Institutes of Health, 2006
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Cataplexy, a sudden brief impairment of muscle tone, such as a limpness of the arms or legs, that is often precipitated by an emotional response such as laughter or startle and is sometimes so dramatic as to cause the person to fall down. Cataplexy occurs in about 70 percent of people affected by...Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., 2020
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