Symptom FInder - Restless Leg Syndrome
RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME
The mnemonic PINT will facilitate the recall of causes of this peculiar disorder that presents with creeping, crawling, or other types of dysesthesias in the lower extremities.
P—Pregnancy may be associated with restless leg syndrome.
I—Many cases of restless leg syndrome are idiopathic.
N—Neurologic disorders associated with restless leg syndrome include uremic or diabetic neuropathy, Parkinson disease, and multiple sclerosis.
T—Toxic causes of this disorder include barbiturates, benzodiazepines, caffeine, and tricyclic antidepressants. Unfortunately, the above list fails to include anemia, another significant cause.
Approach to the Diagnosis
The workup of restless leg syndrome includes a CBC, chemistry panel, serum iron and IBC, glucose tolerance test, urine drug screen, and nerve conduction velocity studies. If multiple sclerosis is suspected, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain or spinal cord can be done. A spinal tap may reveal an elevated gamma globulin or myelin basic protein. A neurologist should be consulted before ordering these expensive diagnostic tests.
The mnemonic PINT will facilitate the recall of causes of this peculiar disorder that presents with creeping, crawling, or other types of dysesthesias in the lower extremities.
P—Pregnancy may be associated with restless leg syndrome.
I—Many cases of restless leg syndrome are idiopathic.
N—Neurologic disorders associated with restless leg syndrome include uremic or diabetic neuropathy, Parkinson disease, and multiple sclerosis.
T—Toxic causes of this disorder include barbiturates, benzodiazepines, caffeine, and tricyclic antidepressants. Unfortunately, the above list fails to include anemia, another significant cause.
Approach to the Diagnosis
The workup of restless leg syndrome includes a CBC, chemistry panel, serum iron and IBC, glucose tolerance test, urine drug screen, and nerve conduction velocity studies. If multiple sclerosis is suspected, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain or spinal cord can be done. A spinal tap may reveal an elevated gamma globulin or myelin basic protein. A neurologist should be consulted before ordering these expensive diagnostic tests.
