Idiopathic cervical dystonia: an overview.

Idiopathic cervical dystonia (CD) is the most common of the adult-onset focal dystonias. It manifests as involuntary muscle contractions that cause twisting or turning of the neck. The resulting abnormal head and neck postures are heterogeneous in their presentation. Because of the variable presentation of the disease and the poor recognition of its clinical spectrum of manifestations, CD is frequently misdiagnosed and accurate diagnosis of the disease is commonly delayed. The pathogenesis of CD remains obscure. However, genetic factors, trauma, the sensory system, and impaired basal ganglia function may all play a role in the development of this disease.