[Effectiveness of valproic acid for postanoxic action myoclonus (Lance-Adams syndrome)]. / Efficacité de l'acide valproïque sur les myoclonies d'action postanoxiques (syndrome de Lance et Adams).

We describe the case of a patient who experienced postanoxic action myoclonus after a transient cardiopulmonary arrest. Whereas benzodiazepines (clonazepam, midazolam, diazepam) were inefficient, valproic acid allowed a full control of the myoclonus. It is essential that the distinction between postanoxic action myoclonus and posthypoxic seizures is made early to avoid a delayed appropriate therapy and erroneous prognostic conclusions.

[Dropped head syndrome: diagnostic discussion apropos of 3 cases]. / Syndrome de la tête tombante: discussion diagnostique à propos de 3 cas.

We report three cases presenting mainly with neck extensor weakness, or dropped head syndrome, revealing respectively myasthenia gravis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and non-inflammatory neck extensors myopathy. We discuss the different diagnosis of this rare syndrome and this late onset localized myopathy of unknown etiology.