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'Duplicate limbs' sensation in acute traumatic quadriplegia
1Neurological Rehabilitation Department, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel.
Paraplegia
|August 1, 1989
Summary
A quadriplegic patient experienced a rare duplicate limb phenomenon after a traumatic accident and seizure. This sensory illusion involved feeling extra limbs, possibly due to sensory deprivation and medication.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- A 64-year-old male experienced acute traumatic quadriplegia following a traffic accident complicated by a petit mal seizure.
- Following initial medical stabilization, the patient developed a unique neurological and psychological phenomenon.
Observation:
- The patient reported the sensation of duplicate limbs, perceiving an additional set of upper and lower extremities growing from his body.
- These perceived duplicate limbs were oriented parallel to his paralyzed limbs.
Findings:
- This case presents a rare instance of a duplicate limb phenomenon affecting all four limbs in a patient with traumatic quadriplegia.
- The phenomenon is hypothesized to be a manifestation of preoccupation with paralyzed limbs, sensory deprivation, and a potential atypical drug reaction.
Implications:
- This case highlights the complex interplay between physical trauma, sensory input, and psychological response.
- It underscores the importance of considering rare neurological and psychiatric phenomena in the management of spinal cord injury patients.
- Further research into the mechanisms of sensory substitution and phantom limb phenomena is warranted.