Opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome

Opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome (OMS), also known as opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome, dancing eyes-dancing feet syndrome, or Kinsbourne syndrome, is a rare neurological condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain, particularly the cerebellum. This leads to a combination of distinctive symptoms: rapid, chaotic eye movements (opsoclonus or "dancing eyes"), sudden involuntary muscle jerks (myoclonus), difficulty with balance and coordination (ataxia), and often behavioral changes or sleep disturbances. In children, OMS is frequently associated with a type of tumor called neuroblastoma — about half of pediatric cases are linked to this cancer. In these cases, the immune system reacts to the tumor but also attacks healthy brain tissue by mistake, a process called a paraneoplastic response. In adults, OMS can occur after viral infections or in association with other cancers such as breast, lung, or ovarian cancer. Sometimes no underlying cause is found, which is called idiopathic OMS. Treatment focuses on calming the overactive immune system using medications like corticosteroids, ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), and sometimes rituximab or other immunosuppressants. If a tumor is present, it must also be treated. While many patients improve with treatment, relapses are common, and long-term cognitive and behavioral problems — especially in children — can persist even after the movement symptoms improve. Early and aggressive treatment is believed to lead to better outcomes.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.What is the likely cause of OMS in my case (or my child's case) — is there an underlying tumor?,What combination of immunotherapy do you recommend, and how long will treatment last?,How will you monitor for relapses, and what should I watch for at home?,What are the expected long-term effects on learning, behavior, and development?,When should neuropsychological testing be done, and how often should it be repeated?,What are the side effects of the medications, and how will they be managed?,Are there clinical trials or newer treatments that might be appropriate?

Common questions about Opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome

Related conditions

Other rare diseases commonly researched alongside Opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome.

• Autoimmune encephalitis→
• Neuroblastoma→
• Paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration→