Risus sardonicus
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'''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]
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