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05:32
Transient Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Model of Stroke
Published on: August 11, 2023
A case of conversion disorder presenting as a severe acute stroke
Phoebe S C Tobiano1, Henry E Wang, Julie B McCausland
1Department of Family Practice, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center-McKeesport Hospital, McKeesport, PA, USA.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|May 9, 2006
Summary
Conversion disorders can mimic serious conditions like stroke. Rapid evaluation at stroke centers helps differentiate these neurological symptoms and confirm conversion disorder, ensuring appropriate care.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Conversion disorders present with physical symptoms mimicking organic neurological diseases.
- These conditions can manifest dramatically, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A young woman presented with acute left hemiparesis, strongly suggesting a stroke.
- Her symptoms were severe and required immediate medical attention.
Findings:
- Emergent evaluation at a regional stroke center ruled out organic causes.
- The patient's presentation was confirmed as a conversion disorder.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering conversion disorders in patients with acute neurological deficits.
- Emphasizes the value of rapid, specialized stroke center evaluation for accurate diagnosis and management.
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