Useless Hand of Oppenheim

Useless Hand of Oppenheim

The deafferented hand or arm is functionally useless, and manifests involuntary movements due to severe proprioceptive loss. This was first described in multiple sclerosis by Oppenheim in 1911, and reflects plaques in the dorsal root entry zone of the relevant spinal cord segment(s).

 

References

Coleman RJ, Russon L, Blanshard K, Currie S. Useless hand of Oppenheim – magnetic resonance imaging findings. PostgraduateMedical Journal 1993; 69: 149-150
Oppenheim H. Discussion on the different types of multiple sclerosis.
BMJ 1911; 2: 729-733

 

Cross References

Proprioception; Pseudoathetosis; Pseudochoreoathetosis