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Transient global amnesia. Precipitating activities and other observations
Archives of Neurology
|October 1, 1982
Summary
Transient global amnesia spells can be triggered by specific events like emotional experiences or pain. These findings suggest an underlying electrophysiologic disturbance may cause temporary memory loss.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Transient global amnesia (TGA) is a distinct neurological condition characterized by sudden, temporary memory loss.
- While often idiopathic, TGA can be precipitated by various factors, prompting further investigation into its triggers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cases of transient global amnesia (TGA) associated with specific precipitating events.
- To explore the potential link between TGA and electrophysiologic disturbances.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 78 cases of transient global amnesia.
- Analysis of reported precipitating events for 85 TGA spells.
Main Results:
- Precipitating events were identified in 26 of 85 TGA spells.
- Common triggers included emotional experiences (8 spells), sexual intercourse (7 spells), and pain (6 spells).
- Less common triggers involved trigeminal ganglion stimulation (2 spells) and immersion in cold water (3 spells).
Conclusions:
- Specific circumstances can precipitate transient global amnesia (TGA) spells.
- The observed triggers suggest a potential electrophysiologic basis for TGA.
- Further research is warranted to understand the memory organization and behavioral aspects during TGA episodes.