Essential tremor

Abstract

Essential tremor (ET), also known as benign essential tremor, is probably the most common movement disorder, with a prevalence of approximately 1% in the population. ET frequently presents with postural and/or action tremor which most commonly affects the upper limbs. Moderate and severe ET often lead to significant physical and emotional disability resulting in reduced quality of life. The exact pathophysiology of ET is not understood but approximately half the patients have a clear autosoma dominant mode of inheritance. Pharmacological treatment, usually in the form of propranolol or primidone, is usually necessary in moderate or severe ET but the response is frequently modest. Stereotactic surgery can be very effective in patients with severe disease that is unresponsive to pharmacological treatment.