Bi-opercular Syndrome: A Case Report and Minireview

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuroscience
• Vascular Neurology

Background:

• Opercular syndrome is a recognized neurological condition.
• It is frequently underdiagnosed due to limited awareness among non-neurologists.
• Key features include impaired voluntary speech and swallowing with preserved automatic movements.

Observation:

• A young patient presented with sudden onset bilateral facial and tongue palsy.
• The patient experienced mutism and dysphagia but retained automatic functions.
• Computed tomography (CT) of the head confirmed bilateral perisylvian infarcts.

Findings:

• The case demonstrates bilateral opercular syndrome resulting from a stroke.
• Vascular events, particularly involving the middle cerebral artery, are the common etiology.
• This presentation underscores the diagnostic challenges in identifying opercular syndrome.

Implications:

• Increased awareness of opercular syndrome is crucial for timely diagnosis.
• Prompt recognition can lead to earlier intervention for stroke patients.
• Further research into the specific mechanisms and management of opercular syndrome is warranted.