Which condition can be inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern and typically involves tremors without rigidity?

Enhance your knowledge with the Internal Medicine End of Rotation Exam. Challenge yourself with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations to ensure you excel.

Essential tremor is the condition that can be inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern and is characterized primarily by tremors that occur during voluntary movements, such as when trying to hold a cup or write. It typically does not include the rigidity and bradykinesia that are hallmark features of Parkinson's disease.

Genetic studies have shown that essential tremor often runs in families, suggesting a direct hereditary component, and the inheritance pattern fits the characteristics of autosomal dominance. This implies that only one copy of the mutated gene from an affected parent can cause the disorder in the offspring.

In contrast, Parkinson's disease, while it may have some familial cases, primarily presents with symptoms such as rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability, which differentiates it clearly from essential tremor. Similarly, Wilson's disease is a genetic disorder caused by copper accumulation and exhibits other systemic symptoms beyond tremor, including liver dysfunction and psychiatric changes, rather than a straightforward tremor alone. Huntington's disease, although also inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, typically presents with chorea and cognitive decline, rather than just tremors.

Thus, essential tremor is appropriately identified as the correct answer, as it aligns with the autosomal dominant inheritance pattern

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