Other names: opistotonus arcuate body back

Arcuate is stretched fuselage (to “bridge”) and head tilted backward is a sign professionally called opistotonus. Its expression occurs in the moment when trigger signals for the muscles of the back and neck (but also other muscle groups) prevail over inhibitory signals, which are transmitted from the brain via the inhibition of neural pathways.

Opistotonus is a classic symptom developed tetanus. Tetanus toxin produced by Clostridium tetani spreads along fibers of the nervous system to the central nervous system. The final phase of the disease is characterized by spasm of muscle groups.

Opistotonus may also come with unstable persons in acute hysterics. Pathophysiology of convulsions is complex plays a role hysterical hyperventilation (deep and rapid breathing, which is also when the internal environment of the organism and the ratios of ions) and hyperactivity emotional centers.

Another possible cause of the symptom is described destroy the structure (and therefore function) of the midbrain. They may be responsible for injuries, bleeding into the area (stroke) or tumor ingrowth acting or oppression. Theoretically, this flag is applicable also in inflammation of the brain and its coverings (encephalitis or meningitis).

Opisthotonus will certainly prevent other serious symptoms for which the patient enters the medical care. Outside the medical facility call for such handicapped persons ambulance.