[Effect of DOPA and haloperidol on experimental torticollis originating in the mesencephalon and its modulation by stimulation of the caudate nucleus].

Electrolytic injury to dopaminergic neurons of the mesencephalic tegmentum in cats produced a steady experimental torticollis (ET) with contralateral turning of the head and body. DOPA potentiated and haloperidol mostly reduced ET. Analogous changes were induced by electrical stimulation of the ipsi- and contralateral caudate nucleus, respectively. Stimulation of the contralateral nucleus coupled with haloperidol administration led to a more pronounced restriction of ET. Unexpectedly, the same result was obtained after DOPA administration coupled with stimulation of the ipsi-lateral caudate nucleus. It is suggested that pharmacological treatment of torsion diseases should be combined with physical treatment methods.