Risus sardonicus 3649976 222851120 2008-07-01T12:36:12Z Ktotam 31281 wikify '''Risus sardonicus''' is a highly characteristic, abnormal, sustained spasm of the facial muscles that is most often observed as a symptom of [[tetanus]]. The name of the condition derives from the appearance of raised eyebrows and an evil, open grin that it gives to its victim. Also poisoning with [[strychnine]] may result in a risus sardonicus. ==In popular culture== The condition was the inspiration behind the 1981 track ''Sardonicus'' by [[UB40]], on their album, [[Present Arms]]. The song has strong political linkages with false smiles. [[Arthur Conan Doyle]]'s hero [[Sherlock Holmes]] uses the term to describe the facial distortion of the murder victim Bartholomew Sholto in his story ''[[The Sign of the Four]]''. ==See also== * [[Tetanus]] * [[Trismus]] * [[Sardonicism]] ==External links== * [http://history.amedd.army.mil/booksdocs/wwii/actvsurgconvoli/Figures/fig87.jpg Photo] {{med-sign-stub}} [[da:Risus sardonicus]] [[de:Risus sardonicus]] [[nl:Risus sardonicus]] [[pl:Uśmiech sardoniczny (medycyna)]]