Neurology · UKMLA & AKT
Essential tremor
A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test, covering how to recognise this condition. The full SA Note notes add investigations, management and complications, with practice questions on this topic.
Key high-yield points
- Bilateral postural and kinetic (action) tremor - absent or minimal at rest; worsens with arms outstretched or on intentional movement
- Frequency 6-12 Hz - classic exam range 6-8 Hz
- Functional impairment - writing, using utensils, holding a cup
- Family history - ~50% of cases; autosomal dominant inheritance
- Relieved by alcohol - in ~65% of patients
- Exacerbated by - anxiety, caffeine, adrenergic stimulation
- Head tremor - horizontal ('no-no') in 75%, vertical ('yes-yes') in 25%
Essential tremor is absent at rest and worsens on action. Parkinson's tremor is most prominent at rest and often improves on intentional movement - the opposite pattern.
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