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Updated: Jul 3, 2026
15:48
ALS - Motor Neuron Disease: Mechanism and Development of New Therapies
Published on: July 29, 2007
[Life with Locked-In syndrome]
M A Bruno1, F Pellas, J L Bernheim
1Coma Science Group, Centre de Recherches du Cyclotron, Université de Liège, Liège, Belgique.
Revue Medicale De Liege
|August 2, 2008
Summary
Locked-In Syndrome (LIS) is a condition resulting from brainstem lesions, causing paralysis while preserving consciousness. Despite its severity, LIS patients report a surprisingly good quality of life, with infrequent requests for end-of-life interventions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Medicine
Context:
- Locked-In Syndrome (LIS) is a rare neurological disorder.
- Characterized by quadriplegia and anarthria with preserved consciousness.
- Typically caused by anterior pontine vascular lesions.
Purpose:
- To review the definition, etiologies, diagnosis, and prognosis of LIS.
- To discuss quality of life and end-of-life decisions in LIS patients.
- To provide an overview of current understanding and management strategies for LIS.
Summary:
- LIS involves severe physical impairment but intact cognitive function.
- Review covers LIS causes, diagnostic approaches, and expected outcomes.
- Explores patient quality of life and ethical considerations.
Impact:
- Highlights the discrepancy between clinical perception and patient self-reported quality of life in LIS.
- Informs clinical practice regarding LIS patient care and support.
- Contributes to the discussion on end-of-life decision-making for severely disabled individuals.
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