Astasia, asymmetrical asterixis and pretectal syndrome in thalamo-mesencephalic hemorrhage

Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2009 Nov;111(9):766-7. doi: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2009.06.003. Epub 2009 Jul 24.

Abstract

We report a patient who presented with sudden onset instability and diplopia. On neurological examination he had asymmetrical asterixis, predominantly in the left hand, and ocular findings consistent with a pretectal syndrome. He was also unable to stand or even sit up unassisted, with a tendency to tilt his body and rotate his trunk axis to the left. Brain MRI showed a hemorrhage in the right thalamo-mesencephalic junction. This region involves important structures for the control of postural stability, motor control, ocular movements and vestibulo-ocular integration, not yet well understood. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case with the simultaneous combination of astasia, prectectal syndrome and asymmetrical asterixis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Diplopia / complications
  • Dyskinesias / etiology*
  • Dyskinesias / psychology
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Hemorrhages / complications*
  • Intracranial Hemorrhages / psychology
  • Male
  • Mesencephalon*
  • Middle Aged
  • Neurologic Examination
  • Thalamus*