Exploration Of The Effect Of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Of The Cerebellum On Primary Cranial Dystonia

Objective:This study aimed to assess effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation(r-TMS)of the cerebellum on segmental dystonia of head,also known as Meige syndrome.Methods:Participants with Meige syndrome were randomized into real or sham stimulation groups.25Hz intermittent stimulationsfor 100 second were delivered over 10 working days.OutcomeincludedBurke-Fahn-Marsdendystonia rating scale(BFMDRS)measured by doctors and evaluation of symptoms by patients themselves,both were blinded from grouping.Assessments were taken at baseline and after 5,7,12,19,26 days.Quality of life and degree of anxiety and depression were measured at the endof follow-up.Results:20 patients were included with an average age of 58.1 and male to female ratio of 0.4.The 10 days r-TMSstimulation failed to show significant relief ofdystonic symptoms by either BFMDRSmeasurements(P=0.791 for movement,P=0.791 for disability)or self-evaluation score(P=0.767 for eyes,P=0.590 for other part).Smokinghistory,most affected part of body,Baclofentaking dose and depression score were defined as possible influential factors but none of them were found to be significantly relevant to symptom changes.Conclusion:r-TMS stimulation of the cerebellum may not improve symptoms of Meige syndrome.