History of Stiff-person syndrome in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 24, 2025

Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) is a rare neurological disorder marked by progressive muscle rigidity and stiffness, mainly affecting the truncal muscles. This stiffness leads to spasms and postural deformities. Common symptoms include chronic pain, impaired mobility, and lumbar hyperlordosis. The cause of SPS is currently unclear.

1956: Moersch and Woltman Describe Stiff-Man Syndrome

In 1956, Frederick Moersch and Henry Woltman first described Stiff-Person Syndrome, initially naming it "stiff-man syndrome," based on 14 observed cases over 32 years.

1956: First Description of Stiff-Person Syndrome

In 1956, Stiff-Person Syndrome (SPS) was first described in medical literature, marking the initial recognition of this distinct condition.

1963: Diazepam Found to Alleviate Symptoms

In 1963, diazepam was determined to help alleviate symptoms of Stiff-Person Syndrome (SPS).

1967: Clinical Diagnostic Criteria Developed

In 1967, Gordon et al. developed clinical diagnostic criteria for Stiff-Person Syndrome, noting persistent tonic contraction and constant firing even at rest.

1975: First Case of Paraneoplastic SPS Found

In 1975, the first case of paraneoplastic Stiff-Person Syndrome was found.

1988: Autoantibodies Against GAD Discovered

In 1988, Solimena et al. discovered that autoantibodies against GAD (glutamic acid decarboxylase) played a key role in Stiff-Person Syndrome.

1988: Corticosteroids First Used for Treatment

In 1988, corticosteroids were first used to treat Stiff-Person Syndrome (SPS).

1989: Adoption of SPS Diagnostic Criteria

In 1989, criteria for an SPS diagnosis were adopted, which included episodic axial stiffness, progression of stiffness, lordosis, and triggered spasms.

1991: Name Change to Stiff-Person Syndrome

In 1991, the name of the disease was changed from "stiff-man syndrome" to the gender-neutral "stiff-person syndrome".

1993: Antiamphiphysin Shown to Play a Role

In 1993, antiamphiphysin was shown to play a role in paraneoplastic Stiff-Person Syndrome.

1994: First Use of Intravenous Immunoglobulin

In 1994, the first use of intravenous immunoglobulin to treat Stiff-Person Syndrome (SPS) was reported.

2000: UK Study of SPS Cases

Between 2000 and 2005, a study in the United Kingdom identified 119 cases of Stiff-Person Syndrome.

2005: UK Study of SPS Cases

Between 2000 and 2005, a study in the United Kingdom identified 119 cases of Stiff-Person Syndrome.

2006: Role of GABARAP Discovered

In 2006, the role of GABARAP in Stiff-Person Syndrome was discovered.

December 2022: Céline Dion Announces SPS Diagnosis

In December 2022, singer Céline Dion announced that she is suffering from Stiff-Person Syndrome, which resulted in cancelled performances.

July 2024: Céline Dion Performs at Paris Olympic Games

In July 2024, Céline Dion performed "Hymne à l'amour" at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games, marking her first public performance since her diagnosis with Stiff-Person Syndrome.