Causes and Diagnoses

Causes and Diagnoses of Dystonia

The exact cause of dystonia is unknown, though researchers believe the condition is related to an issue in the basal ganglia, the part of the brain responsible for "telling" your muscles to contract. There are genetic forms of dystonia as well.

Diagnoses

If a genetic cause is suspected the blood tests may be sent for genetic testing. Otherwise no single test confirms the diagnosis of dystonia. Instead, the diagnosis is made after obtaining a complete medical history (including family history) and performing a thorough neurological evaluation. Tests may be ordered to rule out other conditions or disorders.

Tests may include:

• Blood tests
• Urine tests
• Genetic testing for specific forms of dystonia
• Other tests and screenings to rule out other conditions or disorders