Which of the following is a feature of Tardive Dyskinesia?

Which of the following is a feature of Tardive Dyskinesia?

• A. Pill rolling
• B. Stiffness in limbs
• C. Irregular muscle movements
• D. Tremors during sleep

Answer: (C)

Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements, which is primarily due to long-term use of antipsychotic medications. The correct answer highlights irregular muscle movements, which are the hallmark features of this condition. Patients may experience movements that are often described as twisting, writhing, or jerking of the face, tongue, and limbs. These movements can occur at any time and are not suppressed by voluntary control, which distinguishes them from other movement disorders. The other features mentioned, such as pill rolling, are more characteristic of Parkinsonism, which is often caused by dopaminergic medication use, rather than tardive dyskinesia. Stiffness in limbs pertains to rigidity which can also occur in Parkinson’s disease but is not a defining feature of TD. Tremors during sleep are typically not associated with tardive dyskinesia either, as the involuntary movements of TD are present during awake periods and can become more pronounced during stress or activity. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the unique symptoms associated with tardive dyskinesia and reinforces the importance of recognizing this condition in clinical practice.

Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements, which is primarily due to long-term use of antipsychotic medications. The correct answer highlights irregular muscle movements, which are the hallmark features of this condition. Patients may experience movements that are often described as twisting, writhing, or jerking of the face, tongue, and limbs. These movements can occur at any time and are not suppressed by voluntary control, which distinguishes them from other movement disorders.

The other features mentioned, such as pill rolling, are more characteristic of Parkinsonism, which is often caused by dopaminergic medication use, rather than tardive dyskinesia. Stiffness in limbs pertains to rigidity which can also occur in Parkinson’s disease but is not a defining feature of TD. Tremors during sleep are typically not associated with tardive dyskinesia either, as the involuntary movements of TD are present during awake periods and can become more pronounced during stress or activity. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the unique symptoms associated with tardive dyskinesia and reinforces the importance of recognizing this condition in clinical practice.