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Published on: June 2, 2016
Major Cognitive Changes and Micrographia following Globus Pallidus Infarct
Sarah Nelson1, Hassanain Toma2, Haley LaMonica3
1Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Abstract:
Importance. Globus pallidus (GP) lesions are well known to cause motor deficits but are less commonly-and perhaps not conclusively-associated with cognitive problems. Observations. We present a 45-year-old male with no significant neurological or psychological problems who after suffering a GP infarct was subsequently found to have substantial cognitive problems and micrographia. Formal neuropsychological testing was not possible due to lack of patient follow-up. Conclusions and Relevance. Despite the conflicting literature on the association of GP lesions and cognitive deficits, our patient demonstrated significant neuropsychological changes following his stroke. In addition, evidence of micrographia likely adds to the literature on the localization of this finding. Our case thus suggests that neuropsychological testing may be beneficial after GP strokes.
Insights
Globus pallidus (GP) infarcts can cause significant cognitive problems, not just motor deficits. This case highlights the potential need for neuropsychological testing after GP strokes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Globus pallidus (GP) lesions are primarily associated with motor deficits.
- The link between GP lesions and cognitive impairment is less established.
- Micrographia is a recognized but less localized neurological finding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of a patient with globus pallidus infarct.
- To investigate the association between GP lesions and cognitive deficits.
- To explore the occurrence of micrographia in relation to GP lesions.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 45-year-old male with a globus pallidus infarct.
- Clinical observation of motor, cognitive, and psychological changes post-stroke.
- Documentation of micrographia.
Main Results:
- The patient developed substantial cognitive problems following a GP infarct.
- Micrographia was observed in the patient.
- Formal neuropsychological testing was limited due to patient follow-up issues.
Conclusions:
- This case suggests a potential link between globus pallidus lesions and significant cognitive deficits.
- The findings support the localization of micrographia in relation to GP lesions.
- Neuropsychological evaluation may be warranted after globus pallidus strokes.
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