[Bromocriptine: could it be the cure for post-surgical akinetic mutism?]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuroscience
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Akinetic mutism is a disorder affecting motivation, impairing voluntary motor and verbal initiation despite intact sensorimotor functions.
• It is often transient, typically following posterior fossa surgeries.
• Hydrocephalus and its complications can also precipitate akinetic mutism.

Observation:

• A 43-year-old male presented with akinetic mutism.
• The patient had a history of cerebellum arteriovenous fistula complicated by hydrocephalus.
• The condition was refractory to initial management.

Findings:

• The patient exhibited a remarkable response to bromocriptine therapy.
• This suggests a potential dopaminergic pathway involvement in this specific presentation of akinetic mutism.
• Treatment with bromocriptine led to significant recovery of motor and verbal functions.

Implications:

• Bromocriptine may be a viable therapeutic option for akinetic mutism secondary to hydrocephalus.
• This case expands the understanding of akinetic mutism's etiology and treatment.
• Further research into dopaminergic modulation for akinetic mutism is warranted.