Posterior hippocampal stroke presenting with transient global amnesia.
Federica Naldi1, Simone Baiardi1,2, Maria Guarino1
1a Neurology Unit , S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital , Bologna , Italy.
Neurocase
|December 23, 2016
Summary
Transient global amnesia (TGA) can mimic other conditions. This case highlights an ischemic hippocampal stroke presenting as TGA, emphasizing the need for thorough diagnosis in amnesia cases.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroimaging
- Neuropsychology
Background:
- Acute onset of isolated amnesia presents diagnostic challenges for neurologists.
- Transient global amnesia (TGA) is the most common cause, typically benign.
- Rarely, amnesia results from substance abuse or cerebrovascular events affecting the hippocampus.
Observation:
- A patient presented with symptoms clinically indistinguishable from TGA.
- Computed tomography angiography revealed hemodynamic stenosis in the posterior P2 segment.
- The underlying cause was identified as an ischemic stroke impacting the hippocampus.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited neuropsychological features consistent with TGA.
- Despite TGA-like symptoms, the cause was an ischemic hippocampal stroke.
- Vascular imaging was crucial for identifying the underlying cerebrovascular disease.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering cerebrovascular causes in amnesia presentations.
- Diagnostic protocols for amnesia should include advanced neuroimaging to rule out stroke.
- Accurate diagnosis is critical, as ischemic stroke requires different management than TGA.
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