Definition of Fatal familial insomniaFatal familial insomnia: Abbreviated FFI. An hereditary prion disease characterized by disrupted sleep (insomnia), motor abnormalities (myoclonus, ataxia, dysarthria, dysphagia, and pyramidal signs), and hyperactivation of the autonomic nervous system. Due to a missense mutation at codon 178 of the prion protein gene on chromosome 20. A sporadic form of fatal insomnia is also known. Last Editorial Review: 6/14/2012
Back to MedTerms online medical dictionary A-Z List Need help identifying pills and medications? |
Get the latest health and medical information delivered direct to your inbox FREE!


