Medical Opinion

Ekbom Syndrome is not a new condition although it was overlooked by the medical profession for nearly 300 years. It was first described by Thomas Willis in 1672 but it was not until 1944 that a Swedish neurologist put his name to it. There is little medical literature and few properly controlled tests have been carried out. Various names, some now out of date, which have been used are: Wittmacks-Ekbom Syndrome, Anxietas Tibarium, Extra Pyramidal Hyperkinesis, Asthenia Crurum and Molimina Crurum Nocturna. Some research suggests that a gene may be responsible. This is supported by the fact that it often runs in families. A third of all patients with rheumatoid arthritis also suffer from Ekbom Syndrome. Other possible associations are: prochloroperazine drugs, barbiturate withdrawal, avitaminosis, diabetic neuropathy, iron deficiency anaemia, prostatism, uraemic neuropathy, chronic pulmonary disease, Parkinson's disease, pregnancy and smoking. Multiple sclerosis patients suffer acutely if they are unable to move to relieve the discomfort. Elderly senile patients may be forcibly prevented from the walking about which relieves the discomfort. Correct diagnosis is essential. Ekbom Syndrome should not be confused with Meralgia Paresthetica, a similar painful condition of the legs common in the elderly, also with an unknown cause but which can be easily treated by conservative means. (An Australian pain clinic has treated both conditions, when severe, with a nerve block administered under local anaesthetic in the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve.)