Cataplexy is a neurologic condition, occasionally confused with
epilepsy. Cataplexy may be related to the activation of those brain stem neurons responsible for the descending inhibition of spinal motor
neurons during
REM sleep. Cataplexy is a pathological equivalent of REM sleep.
However, unlike epilepsy, the cataplectic patient does not lose
consciousness but will lie motionless for a few minutes until normal body tone returns. During a cataplectic attack the person remains capable of moving their eyes, and can even do so voluntarily in response to questions.
Cataplexy can exist by itself, or more commonly, as a feature of
narcolepsy or
multiple sclerosis . Cataplexy is characterized by episodes of sudden bilateral loss of muscle tone resulting in the individual collapsing. Cataplexy is usually caused in association with intense
emotions and emotional excitement such as laughter, anger, fear, or surprise.
Successful treatment of this disorder is using
electromagnetic fields. Also, the condition can usually be completely controlled with imipramine or desipramine, given in gradually increasing doses