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Myrtle Beach, SC
November 12, 2025
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What is chorea in lupus?

Chorea is a movement disorder that can occur with lupus, making your movements unpredictable and without a specific pattern. The name comes from the Greek word for "dance" because the movements can look like dancing.

Unlike tremors, which are rhythmic and regular, chorea movements are irregular and Show Full Answer

What is chorea in lupus?

Chorea is a movement disorder that can occur with lupus, making your movements unpredictable and without a specific pattern. The name comes from the Greek word for "dance" because the movements can look like dancing.

Unlike tremors, which are rhythmic and regular, chorea movements are irregular and jerky. They don't follow a predictable rhythm or pattern, which is what makes them distinctive.

How common is it?

Chorea affects about 2 percent of people with lupus and is actually the most common movement disorder associated with the condition. It can sometimes be one of the first symptoms of lupus that appears.

What causes it?

Chorea in lupus is typically caused by neuropsychiatric lupus (NPSLE), where the autoimmune disease affects the nervous system. This is different from tremors, which are more likely caused by medication side effects or other conditions rather than lupus itself.

If you're experiencing unusual, unpredictable movements, it's important to discuss this with your rheumatologist so they can determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

November 12, 2025

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