Opsoclonus Myoclonus Syndrome is an extremely rare auto-immune disease. The most commonly known cause is Neuroblastoma Cancer. However, some cases are caused by viral encephalitis. Research is still needed to confirm the theories behind how and why OMS occurs. The most widely accepted theory is that the brain is an innocent bystander caught in the "cross-fire" between the body's immune system and the tumor or virus, which it is trying to destroy. T lymphocytes and antibodies produced by B cells get the message to attack the brain. The brain and the tumor must have similar properties, as the immune system cannot tell them apart. Brain regions like the cerebellum, brainstem and limbic system appear to bare the brunt of the onslaught. Opsoclonus is an unusual disorder of eye movement in which both eyes dart involuntarily. Myoclonus simply means brief muscle jerks and ataxia. During the peak of the illness, sitting or standing is difficult or impossible. Patients also have trouble speaking, eating, sleeping, exhibit drooling, rage attacks, head tilt or other abnormalities. Some children appear to be nervous, irritable or lethargic. Most children are less than two years old when diagnosed. It is, unfortunately, common for misdiagnosis and long delays in diagnosis due to the extreme lack of physician education and awareness of this rare disorder. Early diagnosis and treatment is crucial for inducing a neurological remission. Sadly, relapses are very common and usually occur more than once. Some treatments can cause life altering or even fatal complications. Dancing with the AngelsWe have other angels not pictured here. If you have an OMS child that has earned their wings and would like their photo here, please email us at email@example.com. We want to honor all our OMS Heroes! LIVE - LEARN - EDUCATEOpsoclonus Myoclonus SyndromeAll OMS Awareness Logos and designs contained in this website were designed and created by Melodie Walenius. Please feel free to use them in all POSITIVE aspects of raising awareness for kids fighting Opsoclonus Myoclonus Syndrome. However, please do not alter, change or modify any words, colors or structure without permission. Thank you for respecting the work put into these designs and helping to spread awareness in an effort to find a cure. Website designed and created by RHTYHM OF LIFE - a project of THE NOBLEMEN, a 501c3 non-profit organization. All rights reserved MW 2014