Isaac’s syndrome (also known as neuromyotonia, Isaac-Mertens syndrome, continuous muscle fiber activity syndrome, and quantal squander syndrome) is a rare neuromuscular disorder caused by hyperexcitability and continuous firing of the peripheral nerve axons that activate muscle fibers.

Onset is between ages 15 and 60, with most individuals experiencing symptoms before age 40.

Symptoms include:

• Progressive muscle stiffness
• Continuously contracting or twitching muscles
• Cramping
• Increased sweating
• Delayed muscle relaxation
• Weakened reflexes
• Muscle pain

Symptoms occur even during sleep or when individuals are under general anesthesia.

In most people with Isaac’s syndrome, stiffness is most prominent in limb and trunk muscles, although symptoms can be limited to cranial muscles. Speech and breathing may be affected if pharyngeal or laryngeal muscles are involved.

There are hereditary and acquired (occurring from unknown causes) forms of the disorder. The acquired form occasionally develops in association with peripheral neuropathies or after radiation treatment, but more often is caused by an autoimmune condition. Autoimmune-mediated Isaac’s syndrome is typically caused by antibodies that bind to potassium channels on the motor nerve. Isaac’s syndrome is only one of several neurological conditions that can be caused by potassium channel antibodies.

Anticonvulsants usually provide significant relief from the stiffness, muscle spasms, and pain associated with Isaac’s syndrome. Plasma exchange may provide short-term relief for individuals with some forms of the acquired disorder.

There is no cure for Isaac’s syndrome. The long-term prognosis for individuals with the disorder is uncertain.