Rubral tremors are typically characterized by intermittent jerking movements of the limbs and torso. The word "Rubral" is spelled /rjuːbrəl/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the second syllable (/ˈruːbrəl/). The "u" is pronounced as in "blue," the "b" as in "big," and the "r" is rolled. Meanwhile, "tremors" is spelled /ˈtrɛmərz/, with the stress on the first syllable (/ˈtrɛmərz/) and the "o" pronounced as in "hot." These tremors are typically caused by damage to the red nucleus in the brainstem.
Rubral tremors refer to a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary rhythmic shaking or oscillation of specific body parts, caused by dysfunction or damage to a region of the brain known as the red nucleus or rubra. The term "rubral" stems from the Latin word "rubra," meaning red, which refers to the reddish appearance of this area due to its rich blood supply.
Rubral tremors typically manifest as coarse, irregular, and jerky movements that primarily affect muscles on one side of the body. They most commonly affect the limbs, including the arms and legs, but can also involve the head, neck, and trunk. These tremors may worsen during purposeful movements or actions, such as reaching for an object, and may decrease or disappear at rest.
The underlying cause of rubral tremors is often associated with damage to the midbrain, which can be caused by various conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, or certain genetic disorders. Additionally, they can result from specific lesions or abnormalities within the red nucleus itself.
Treatment options for rubral tremors generally involve medications to alleviate symptoms, such as anticholinergic drugs or muscle relaxants. In severe cases, surgery or deep brain stimulation may be considered to provide relief. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of these treatments can vary depending on the individual case and the underlying cause of the tremors.
The term "Rubral Tremors" is derived from the conjunction of the Latin word "rubra", meaning red, and the English word "tremor".
The term itself was coined by William Gowers, a British neurologist, in the late 19th century. He used the term to describe a specific type of tremor associated with a distinct region of the brain called the red nucleus, which is known for its reddish coloration. The red nucleus is located in the midbrain and is involved in motor control.
Over time, the term "Rubral Tremors" became widely accepted within the medical community to refer to this particular type of tremor caused by dysfunction or damage to the red nucleus. It is characterized by involuntary shaking or trembling of the limbs, often associated with other symptoms such as muscle stiffness, impaired coordination, and difficulty with balance and movement.