What characterizes an oculogyric crisis?

An oculogyric crisis is characterized by spasmodic eye movements. This condition involves involuntary muscle contractions or spasms that lead the eyes to deviate upward or in other directions. This phenomenon is often associated with certain neurological disorders or reactions to medications, particularly antipsychotics, that can cause acute dystonic reactions. The involuntary nature of the eye movements is a key feature that distinguishes this crisis from other movement disorders.

Spasmodic neck movements, muscle rigidity, and severe dizziness are not defining characteristics of an oculogyric crisis. While these symptoms can occur in various neurological conditions or as side effects of medications, they do not specifically describe the involuntary eye movement aspect that is central to oculogyric crises.