Hereditary myoclonus–dystonia associated with epilepsy

A five-generation Dutch family with inherited myoclonus–dystonia (M-D) is described. Genetic analysis revealed a novel truncating mutation within the ε-sarcoglycan gene (SGCE). In three of five gene carriers, epilepsy and/or EEG abnormalities were associated with the symptoms of myoclonus and dystonia. The genetic and clinical heterogeneity of M-D is extended. EEG changes and epilepsy should not be considered exclusion criteria for the clinical diagnosis of M-D.