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Biomedical subjects

M H Willems

Publications and source records attributed to M H Willems.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

[Clinical thinking and decision making in practice. A young women with muscle cramps].

A 23-year-old woman with a history of episodic stiffening of the limbs since her early adolescence, reported attacks of muscle contraction accompanied by feelings of panic but without loss of consciousness. Epileptic seizures, e.g. progressive myoclonic epilepsy, metabolic encephalopathy, dystonia and tetany were suggested. During the examination, muscle contraction could be provoked whilst measuring the blood pressure. Tetany based on primary hypoparathyroidism was diagnosed from the medical history as well as the neurological examination. This was confirmed by laboratory tests. She was successfully treated with calcium and I-alpha-(OH)2 vitamin D3.

Adult↗

Bilateral locked facets in the thoracic spine.

Two cases of traumatic bilateral locked facets in the thoracic spine are reported. Both patients had only minor neurological signs. They both made a full neurological recovery after surgical reduction of the locked facets. Bilateral locked facets are very uncommon in the thoracic spine. The diagnosis should be considered in any patient with a fracture-dislocation of the thoracic spine. In these cases additional lateral tomographs are required. Early open reduction of bilateral locked facets and internal fixation are mandatory.

Adolescent↗