Opisthotonus

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Opisthotonus (opisthotonos) is a very severe and unusual body posture where the head, neck, and spine arch backward in a rigid stretch. It happens when the muscles along the spine go into strong, lasting spasms.

Causes
- Serious brain or nerve problems: tetanus, traumatic brain injury, severe cerebral palsy, meningitis in newborns.
- Other medical problems: very high pressure inside the head (hydrocephalus), certain poisonings (like strychnine or cyanide).
- Drugs and medications: rare side effect of some antipsychotic drugs (such as haloperidol or metoclopramide) and sometimes lithium toxicity.
- Other situations: severe heat stroke, seizures, or drowning can be associated with this posture.
- Occurs in animals and can be seen in certain historical or experimental contexts.

In infants
Opisthotonus is more noticeable in babies and can be a sign of serious illness such as meningitis, severe jaundice (kernicterus), or tetanus. It may make an infant arch backward when held or fed.

What it means
Opisthotonus is a warning sign of a serious problem affecting the brain, nerves, or muscles. It requires urgent medical evaluation to find and treat the underlying cause.

Treatment
Treatment focuses on the root problem. Some metabolic conditions (like thiamine deficiency) may improve quickly with appropriate treatment, but many causes need specific medical care.