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Crossed aphasia with left spatial neglect and visual imperception: a case report.
B Paghera1, P Mariën, L A Vignolo
1Neurological Clinic, University of Brescia, Spedali Civili, I-25125 Brescia, Italy.
Summary
This case study demonstrates right-hemisphere dominance for language and visuospatial functions in a right-handed individual following a stroke. It highlights the brain's plasticity and potential for functional reorganization after neurological injury.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- The study investigates hemispheric language dominance in right-handed individuals.
- Examines the impact of right middle cerebral artery aneurysm rupture and surgery on cognitive functions.
Observation:
- A 64-year-old right-handed woman experienced aphasia, hemiparesis, hemianopia, and spatial neglect after a right middle cerebral artery aneurysm rupture.
- Brain imaging revealed a large right temporo-insulofrontoparietal lesion.
Findings:
- The patient evolved from global aphasia to Wernicke's and then conduction aphasia, indicating language processing in the right hemisphere.
- Visuospatial deficits, including spatial neglect and constructional apraxia, were prominent.
- While hemiparesis resolved, persistent left hemianopia and subtle visual recognition impairments were noted.
- This case provides strong evidence for right-hemisphere representation of both linguistic and visuospatial functions in this right-handed patient.
Implications:
- Suggests that language and visuospatial functions can be lateralized to the right hemisphere in some right-handed individuals.
- Underscores the importance of considering atypical brain organization in clinical assessments and rehabilitation.
- Highlights the potential for recovery and reorganization of cognitive functions post-stroke, even with significant lesions.