Locked-in syndrome
Locked-in syndrome (pronunciation: /ˈlɒkt ɪn sɪnˌdroʊm/) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by complete paralysis of voluntary muscles in all parts of the body except for those that control eye movement.
Etymology
The term "Locked-in syndrome" was first used in 1966 by Plum and Posner, who described the condition as "locked in" to denote the state of patients being aware but unable to communicate or move.
Definition
Locked-in syndrome is a condition in which a patient is aware and awake but cannot move or communicate verbally due to complete paralysis of nearly all voluntary muscles in the body except for the eyes. It is the result of a lesion to the pons, a part of the brainstem that contains nerve fibers that relay information to other areas of the brain.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of Locked-in syndrome include:
- Quadriplegia: Total paralysis of all four limbs.
- Anarthria: Inability to articulate speech.
- Dysphagia: Difficulty in swallowing.
- Vertical gaze palsy: Inability to move the eyes up and down.
Patients are usually able to move their eyes and sometimes are able to blink, but cannot chew, swallow, speak, or move any part of their body below the neck.
Causes
Locked-in syndrome is usually caused by a stroke at the level of the pons in the brainstem. Other causes can include trauma, infections, and lesions in the brainstem.
Treatment
There is no cure for Locked-in syndrome. Treatment is supportive and aims to improve quality of life, prevent complications, and promote communication. This may include the use of assistive technologies such as eye-tracking devices and computer-based communication tools.
Prognosis
The prognosis for Locked-in syndrome varies. Some individuals may regain certain functions with intense rehabilitation and therapy, but the majority remain locked-in for life.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Locked-in syndrome
- Wikipedia's article - Locked-in syndrome
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