Cataplexy

cataplexy /cat·a·plexy/ (kat´ah-plek?se) a condition marked by abrupt attacks of muscular weakness and hypotonia triggered by such emotional stimuli as mirth, anger, fear, etc., often associated with narcolepsy.cataplec´tic

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cat·a·plex·y (kt-plks)

n.

A sudden loss of muscle tone and strength, usually caused by an intense emotional stimulus.

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cata·plectic (-plktk) adj.

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Cataplexy

A symptom of narcolepsy in which there is a sudden episode of muscle weakness triggered by emotions. The muscle weakness may cause the person's knees to buckle, or the head to drop. In severe cases, the patient may become paralyzed for a few seconds to minutes.

Mentioned in: Narcolepsy, Sleep Disorders

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cataplexy

a condition, often associated with narcolepsy; marked by abrupt attacks of a loss of voluntary muscular function (flaccid paralysis), except those controlling respiration and eye movement. Observed in dogs, cats and horses, especially Shetland ponies. In dogs these have been precipitated by extreme excitement, vigorous physical or sexual activity. Usually of short duration. Most cases are idiopathic, but can be associated with lesions of the brainstem.

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food-elicited cataplexy test

cataleptic dogs demonstrate repeated attacks of catalepsy when presented with several individual pieces of food.