Clinical Medicine Flashcards
1-30 LMNL and disorders of peripheral nerves 31-48 Spinal Cord Disorders 49-66 Disorders of Neuromuscular Junctions 67-82 Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Strokes 83-100 UMNL and Localization of Cortical Lesions 101-122 Cerebellar and Balance Disorders 123-162 Increased Intracranial Pressure 163-208 Movement Disorders 209-220 Sleep Disorders 221-263 Infections in CNS 267-320 Headache 321-335 Delirium 336-355 Neurological Disorders affecting Vision
What are some causes of UMNL?
Stroke
MS
What are some causes of LMNL?
Polyneuropathy
GBS
Early UMNL
What are the signs of LMNL?
Flaccidity Decreased DTR Present atrophy Fasciculation Weakness pattern: [Distal > Proximal, Flexors = Extensors]
What are the signs of UMNL?
Spasticity Increased DTR Clonus Absent Superficial reflexes Positive Babinski Positive Hoffman Disuse atrophy Weakness pattern: [UL: Extensors > Flexors, LL: Flexors > Extensors]
What are the 4 phases of spinal shock and its duration?
Areflexia [0-1 day]
Initial reflex return [1-3 days]
Hyperreflexia [1-4 weeks]
Hyperreflexia, spasticity [1-12 months]
What is the cause of spinal muscular atrophy?
Genetic - AR
Describe the clinical presentation of Spinal Muscular atrophy
Progressive muscle weakness and atrophy
LMNL
Treatment of Spinal Muscular Atrophy?
ASO- antisense oligonucleotide
What is ALS?
Neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons in cerebral cortex, brainstem and anterior horn of SC
Describe the presentation of ALS?
Progressive weakness that spreads one limb to the other and eventually patients die due to respiratory failure
Mixed UMNL and LMNL
Prognosis of ALS?
Fatal in 3-5 years
What is an example of sensory neuronopathy?
Herpes zoster [الحزام الناري]
Describe presentation of plexopathy?
Weakness and numbness depending on parts of plexus affected
What are some causes of plexopathy?
DM
Focal mas - Pacoast
What is a hereditary cause of peripheral neuropathy?
Charcoat Marie Tooth disease
What is mononeuropathy?
One peripheral nerve is affected
What are some examples of mononeuropathy?
CN7 palsy
Carpal tunnel syndrome
What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?
Median nerve entrapped in flexor retinaculum
What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Numbness in lateral 3 ½ digits +/- weakness
What are the clinical exams for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Tinel sign
Phalen sign
How is carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed?
Clinical diagnosis
Nerve conduction study
What is used to treat Carpal tunnel syndrome?
Wrist splint/NSAIDs
Steroid
Surgery
What is mononeuropathy multiplex?
Several peripheral nerves affected simultaneously or sequentially
What are some causes of mononeuropathy multiplex?
Vasculitis of vasa nervorum
Sarcoidosis
DM
What is polyneuropathy?
Generalized symmetric and length dependent [Longest fibers affected first]
What is the commonest cause of polyneuropathy?
DM
How is polyneuropathy diagnosed?
Clinical diagnosis
Nerve biopsy [if necessary]
Nerve conduction study [to confirm diagnoses and classify it]
What are the types of polyneuropathy?
Demyelinating
axonal
What are the causes of axonal neuropathy?
Metabolic /endocrine [DM] Hereditary Drugs Vasculitis Vitamin toxicity Alcohol
What are the causes of demyelinating neuropathy?
GBS
Hereditary
Arsenic toxicity
Lymphoma
Describe the presentation of Anterior Spinal Artery Syndrome
Areflexia + flaccid paralysis at lesion [anterior horn destruction]
Anhidrosis + loss of vasomotor tone
Loss of bladder + bowel control but with preservation of reflex emptying
Paralysis of respiration in cervical segments
Bilateral horn syndrome
What structures are affected in Anterior Spinal artery Syndrome?
Anterior ⅔ of SC, with sparing of posterior columns and horns
In what order are the structures affected in Syringomyelia? What is the correlating presentation?
Anterior horn cells → LMNL patterns
Corticospinal tract → caudal UMNL signs
2nd order Spinothalamic fibers as they decussate anterior to anterior ventral commissure
Describe the clinical presentation of Syringomyelia
Cape sensory deficit / sacral sparing
What are the causes of Syringomyelia?
Hemorrhage
Trauma
Tumor of SC
Chiari I malformation
Describe the presentation of Combined system degeneration?
Loss of motor function below lesion
Loss of position sense below lesion
Loss of vibratory sensation below lesion
What structures are affected in combined system degeneration?
Lateral corticospinal tract
Dorsal Columns
What structures are affected by Vit. B12 deficiency?
Diffuse involvement of dorsal columns and lateral corticospinal tracts
Optic nerve, cerebellum, peripheral nerves and cerebral hemisphere
What are the causes of Combined system degeneration?
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Hypocupremia myelopathy
What structures are affected in Tabetic syndrome?
Large posterior fibers of dorsal roots that later form the posterior column
What are the causes of Tabetic Syndrome?
Tertiary neurosyphilis
DM
Describe the presentation of Complete transection
Decreased in respiration if above C5
Spasticity below lesion [UMNL]
Decreased voluntary bowel and bladder control
What are the causes of complete transection?
Transverse myelitis [post-infectious or demyelinative]
Corticospinal tract
Dorsal column
What are the structures affected in Complete transection?
Anterolateral spinothalamic tract
Dorsal columns
Describe the clinical presentation of hemisection syndrome
Ipsilateral sensory loss below the lesion
Contralateral motor loss [LMNL]
What structures are affected in hemisection syndrome?
Anterolateral spinothalamic tracts
Dorsal column
What is another name for Brown-sequard syndrome?
Hemisection syndrome
What are the causes of hemisection syndrome?
Trauma
Compression
MS
What is the cause of Myasthenia Gravis?
Antibodies against N1 Ach Receptors [Post-synaptic]
What is the cause of LEMS?
Antibodies against VGCC [Pre-synaptic]
What is the cause of Botulism?
C. Botulism neurotoxin [Pre-synaptic]
What is the cause of Organophosphate Exposure?
Irreversible inhibition of AchE → ↑↑Ach stimulation [Synaptic]
Describe the onsets of Botulism, MG, and LEMS
Botulism: Rapid onset
MG + LEMS: Progressive onset
What conditions are associated with MG?
Autoimmune diseases [Hyperthyroidism]
Lymphoma [10%]
What conditions are associated with LEMS?
Small cell cancer
Describe the clinical presentation of MG
Fatigability with repetitive contraction with diurnal variation Ptosis & Diplopia [in 2/3] Descending weakness Facial Weakness Snarl Smile Dysarthria & Dysphagia Proximal Muscle Weakness Respiratory Muscle weakness [MG Crisis] Normal sensation & Reflexes
Describe the clinical presentation of LEMS
Ascending weakness Slow progressive leg weakness & fatigue Dry Mouth Constipation Post-Exercise Facilitation Eye & Bulbar symptoms [in 30%] Absent Deep Tendon Reflex
Describe the clinical presentation of Botulism
Dilated Pupils
Dry mouth
Constipation
Descending weakness
Describe the clinical presentation of Organophosphate Exposure
Proximal Muscle Weakness Respiratory Muscle weakness Confusion, Anxiety Coma Diarrhea Vomiting Sweating
Diagnostic tests for Botulism?
Incremental response
Toxin Isolation
Diagnostic Tests for LME?
Incremental response w/↑ frequency stimulation
CT chest for SCLC
Antibodies against VGCC in 95% of patients
Diagnostic Tests for MG?
Decremental response w/↓ frequency stimulation
CT chest for Thymoma
AchR-Ab in 85% of patients
MuSK-Ab in 50% of patients who test -ve for AchR-Ab
Tensilon Test [IV Tensilon causes temporary and rapid improvement of symptoms]
Treatment of OE
Atropine
Pralidoxime
Treatment of Botulism
Penicillin G
Botulinum Toxin
Toxin Removal [Gastric Lavage + Wound cleaning]
Treatment of LEMS
3,4-DAP [potassium channel blocker]
Treatment of MG
Pyridostigimine [temporary symptomatic treatment]
Glucocorticoids → Steroid-spacing mechanisms
Thymectomy
IV Ig
PE
What is a stroke?
Sudden focal neurological deficit caused by interruption of blood flow to a specific region of the brain
What are the two types of strokes?
Hemorrhagic
Ischaemic
What are the common types of stroke?
Ischaemic [85%]
Intracerebral hemorrhage [15%]
SAH [5%]
What is the most common cause of emboli in ischemic stroke?
Atrial Fibrillation
What is a Transient Ischemic attack?
Focal deficit that resolves completely and spontaneously within 24 hours
[60% have evidence or brain infarction]
What are the risk factors for stroke?
HTN Smoker DM Dyslipidemia Previous history of TIAs Heart disease Hypercoagulopathy Sickle cell/ Increased RBCs Obesity Carotid Bruit Afib Snoring Cocaine
What is the most common artery implicated in strokes?
Middle Cerebral Artery
Describe the presentation of MCA occlusion?
Contralateral face Aphasia [if on left] Contralateral sensory loss Cortical sensory loss [non-dominant hemispheres] Contralateral visual field defect Gaze deviation ipsilateral to lesion
Describe the presentation of Internal Cerebral artery occlusion
Ipsilateral retinal ischemia
Sensorimotor dysfunction similar to MCA
Describe the presentation of ACA occlusion
Contralateral leg weakness
Contralateral leg sensory loss
Apraxia
Abulia
Describe the presentation of PCA occlusion
Contralateral homonymous hemianopia
Visual agnosia
Cognitive dysfunction
Management of Suspected Stroke cases
CT angiogram
EEG
Neurological screening assessments
IV with normal saline
When should CT scan be done?
Within 25 minutes of arrival
Management of Hemorrhagic Strokes?
Mannitol to lower ICP
Nimodipine for SAH
Management of Ischemic strokes
Consider fibrinolytic [tPA] therapy or Aspirin
Secondary prevention of TIAs?
Evaluate for embolism or carotid stenosis
Aspirin / Clopidogrel
What structures are affected in capsular hemiplegia?
Corticospinal tracts
Corticobulbar tracts
Occlusion of which artery may lead to capsular hemiplegia?
MCA
What is a characteristic finding of capsular hemiplegia?
Ipsilateral facial nerve palsy, with sparing of the upper half
Signs of UMNL in the Internal Capsule?
Contralateral hemiplegia
Hemisensory loss
UMN signs
Signs of UMNL in Midbrain?
Crossed hemiplegia
Ipsilateral oculomotor palsy
Contralateral hemiplegia
Signs of UMNL in Pons?
Contralateral hemiplegia
Ipsilateral CN 6, CN 7 palsy
Signs of UMNL in Medulla?
Ipsilateral CN 9, 10, 11, 12 palsy
Contralateral hemiplegia
Signs of UMNL in the cervical area?
Ipsilateral hemiparesis
What determines the dominant hemisphere?
Localization of speech and mathematical ability
When is cerebral dominance established?
1st few years of life
What would produce primitive reflexes?
Bilateral lesion of frontal cortex
What are the functions of the Frontal lobe?
Planning ahead Monitoring Sustained attention Goal orientated behavior Working memory Problem solving
What are the functions of the parietal lobe?
Receives and processes sensory information
Transmits info to other parts and coordinates
Visual attention
Spatial reasoning
Tests for Parietal lobe?
Sterogeneis test
Point discrimination test
Graphesthesia test
What are the functions of the temporal lobe?
Hearing
Compression of Language
Memory retrieval and formation
What would a lesion in Wenicke’s area produce?
Affects language comprehension, response would also be gibberish
Lesion of which structure would produce homonymous hemianopia?
Optic tracts
Lesion of which structure would produce homonymous hemianopia with macular sparing?
Cerebral cortex
What is the function of the anterior cerebellar lobe?
Regulates muscle tone
What is the function of the posterior cerebellar lobe?
Coordination of voluntary motor activity
What is the function of the flocculonodular lobe?
Maintenance of posture and balance
What are the characteristics of cerebellar disease?
Hypotonia [rag-doll appearance and inebriated] Disequilibrium Dyssynergia Dysmetria [past-pointing] Ataxia Dysarthria Intention tremor Dysdiadochokinesia Nystagmus
What is dysdiadochokinesia?
Inability to perform rapid alternating movements
How can we check for rebound?
Flex forearm at elbow against resistance, then suddenly release, positive if it hits chest or face
Describe decomposition of movements?
Breakdown smooth muscle act into jerky parts
Rebound
Cause of Anterior Vermis Syndrome
Alcohol abuse [commonly]
Presentation of Anterior Vermis Syndrome
Gait, trunk and leg ataxia
Presentation of Posterior Vermis Syndrome
Gait ataxia
What Structure is affected in Posterior Vermis Syndrome?
Flocculonodular lobe
What are the common causes of Posterior Vermis Syndrome?
Brain tumors in children, ex:
Medulloblastoma
Ependymoma
What are the causes of Cerebellar hemispheric syndrome?
Brain Tumor
Brain abscess
Presentation of Cerebellar Hemispheric Syndrome?
Ipsilateral Leg/Arm, Truncal and Gait ataxia
Cause of Anterior Lobe Syndrome?
Malnutrition associated with chronic alcoholism
Manifestation of Anterior Lobe Syndrome?
Ataxic gait Gait instability Loss of coordination Fails heel-shin test Dysarthria
Cause of Posterior Lobe Syndrome?
Strokes
Tumor
Trauma
Degenerative disease
Manifestation of Posterior Lobe Syndrome
Decreased muscle tone Intention tremor Loss of coordination of voluntary movements Explosive speech Dysmetria Dysdiadochokinesia
Manifestation of Floculondular Lobe Syndrome?
Truncal Ataxia- Paraxial muscles
What produces appendicular ataxia?
Lesion of cerebellar hemispheres
Causes of Intention Tremors?
MS
Midbrain infarction
Ataxia mimicers
Hydrocephalus → damages frontopontine pathways
Lesion of prefrontal cortex
Pons/Cerebellar peduncles → cerebellar input or output
What does Monro-Kellie rule state?
An increase in one element [Blood, CSF, Brain Tissue] must occur at the expense of others, which will increase ICP
What is the normal ICP in adults?
8 - 18 mmHg
15 - 22 cmH20
What is the normal ICP in children?
10 - 20 cmH20
What is the leading cause of Increased ICP in kuwait?
Idiopathic intracranial HTN, associated with obesity
What is the formula for CPP?
CPP = MAP - ICP
What is the normal CPP?
80-100 mmHg
What is the formula for MAP?
MAP = DP+ ⅓(SP-DP)
What is the most reliable indicator of increased ICP?
Decreased LOC
What is the earliest sign of ↑ICP? Late sign?
Early sign: Decreased LOC
Late sign: Fixed and dilated pupil
What is cushing’s triad?
Bradycardia
Change in breathing pattern
↑BP
What causes cushing’s triad?
Ischemia or pressure on brainstem
Describe decorticate posturing
Flexion of UL and extension of LL [Plantar flexed Internally rotated Flexed arm, elbow and hands Adducted shoulders]
Describe decerebrate posturing
Extension of UL + LL [Plantar flexed Extended elbow Pronated forearm Flexed hand]
What is a sign of ↑ICP in infants?
Bulging fontanelle
What are signs of ↑ ICP?
Headache Vomiting Abnormal posturing Papilledema Poor pupillary response to light
What respiratory changes are associated with diffuse cortical lesions?
Cheyne-stokes respiration
What is Cheyne-stoke respiration?
Apnea alternating with hyperventilation
What respiratory changes are associated with Midbrain lesion?
Central Neurogenic Hyperventilation
What is Central Neurogenic Hyperventilation?
Sustained regular and rapid, deep breathing
What respiratory changes are associated with pons lesion?
Apneustic breathing
What is Apneustic breathing?
Prolonged pause at end of inspiration
What respiratory changes are associated with medullary lesion?
Ataxic breathing
What is ataxic breathing?
Rapid and shallow breathing
Describe pupillary changes associated with brainstem lesion
Midbrain: Mid-sized pupils
Pons: Pin-point pupils
What are the types of brain edema?
Vasogenic
Cytotoxic
Interstitial
What is the most common type of brain edema?
Vasogenic
What is Vasogenic Edema?
Increased permeability of brain capillary endothelial cells , follows white matter distribution
Cause of Vasogenic Edema?
Tumor Abscess Hemorrhage Infarction Contusions
What is Cytotoxic Edema?
ATP failures, increasing cell size, follows gray matter distribution
Cause of Cytotoxic Edema?
Hypoxic-ischemic injury
Osmolar injury
Toxins
Secondary injury following head trauma
What is interstitial edema?
Increase of water content of periventricular matter due obstruction of CSF flow
Herniation Syndrome due to increased ICP?
Transtentorial herniation Subfalcine herniation Central herniation Upward transtentorial herniation Tonsillar herniation
What structures are compressed in transtentorial herniation?
Ipsilateral Oculomotor
PCA
Rarely- Contralateral Oculomotor nerve + Cerebral peduncle
What is transtentorial herniation?
Medial temporal lobe squeezed under tent
What is Subfalcine herniation?
Cingulate gyrus pushed under falx cerebri
What structures are compressed in subfalcine herniation?
ACA [→ infarction of paramedian cortex]
Treatment of Increased ICP
Removal of causative Hyperventilation [→ hypocapnia → vasoconstriction] Removal of CSF Fluid restriction IV mannitol Steroids
What is Upward Transtentorial herniation?
Infratentorial mass compresses brain stem → upward movement of cerebellum
Presentation of Central Herniation:
Hernites both temporal lobes → damage to midbrain:
Decerebrate posturing
Pupils fixed in mid positions
→ Loss of brainstem reflexes/cessation of respirations/brain dead
What are the indications for corticosteroids as treatment for ↑ICP?
Brain tumor
Abscesses
What are the classes of hyperkinetic disorders?
Tics Myoclonus Ballismus Dystonia Chorea Atherosis Tremor
What are the classes of hypokinetic disorders?
Parkinsonism
What is most common major movement disorders?
Parkinson’s disease
What is the typical age of onset of parkinsons?
50-60 yrs
What are the cardinal features of PD?
Bradykinesia
Rigidity
Instability [postural]
Tremor [Resting]
What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s?
Stooped posture Masked facial expression Forward tilt of trunk Rigidity Flexed elbows and wrists Slightly flexed hips and knees Shuffling, short stepped gait Trembling of extremities
What is the most disabling symptom of PD?
Bradykinesia
What is the earliest sign of PD?
Resting tremor
Define resting tremor
Tremor that presents at rest and improves when a motor task is performed
Describe resting tremors in PD?
Begins unilaterally as “pill-rolling” tremor in hands
Earliest sign of PD, present in 70% of patients
What sign is indicative of advanced stage of PD?
Postural instability and gait disturbances
Describe the postural instability seen in PD?
Flexion of neck and trunk
Describe gait disturbances seen in PD?
Low gait with short stride length
Inability to turn quickly
Reduced arm swing
What rigidity is seen in PD patients?
Lead pipe [sustained] rigidity
Cogwheel [intermittent] rigidity
[lead pipe + tremor]
Seen in 90% of patients
What signs are common in parkinsonisms?
Rigidity
Bradykinesia
How do you diagnose PD?
History & clinical examination
2 out of 4 cardinal features
Laboratory tests and imaging
To exclude secondary parkinsonism
Diagnosis supported by response to Dopaminergic drugs
What is the treatment of PD?
Dopamine replacement
Amantadine
MAO-B inhibitors
DBS
Classification of Parkinsonism?
Primary
Secondary
Atypical
What are the causes of atypical parkinsonian syndromes?
Corticobasal degeneration [CBD]
Progressive Supranuclear palsy [PSP]
Multiple System Atrophy [MSA]
What are tics?
Sudden, repeated, brief movement or sounds, which can be voluntarily suppressed
What is the clinical criteria for Tourette Syndrome?
≥2 motor
≥ 1 vocal
> 1 year
What is coprolalia?
Profanities
What is echolalia?
Repeat what others say
What is palilalia?
Repeats own words
What is dystonia?
Sustained involuntary muscular contraction → fixed posture / repetitive twisting movements
Divisions of Dystonia?
Focal
Generalized
Task specific
What is torticollis?
Dystonia of neck
What are the task specific dystonias?
Writer’s cramp
Musician dystonia
Throwing a ball
What is sensory trick?
Purposeful movement that suppresses dystonia
What medications may cause dystonia?
Dopamine receptor blockers
Define myoclonus
Brief shock-like jerks
What is an example of negative myoclonus?
Asterixis
What can myoclonus indicate?
Lesion in cortex, subcortex, brainstem, spinal and peripheral nerves
Define tremors
Rhythmic oscillation of a body part by alternating contraction of antagonist muscles
What structures are affected by tremors?
Hands Head Jaw Voice Tongue LL
What are the causes of resting tremors?
PD
How are tremors classified?
Resting tremor
Postural tremor
Action tremor
What is the commonest movement disorder?
Essential tremor
How are essential tremors diagnosed?
Spiral test
What are the treatment options of Essential tremor?
Medications [propranolol]
Deep brain stimulation
What is chorea?
Irregular, involuntary, non-rhythmic and unsustained movements that flow from one side to another
What are the classic examples of chorea?
HD
Sydenham’s chorea
What are two hereditary causes of chorea? Its pattern of inheritance?
HD - [dominant]
Wilson’s disease [recessive]
What is ballismus?
Large amplitude choreic movements of proximal limbs
What is the commonest cause of hemiballismus?
Stroke
What is athetosis?
Slow continuous stream of sinuous, writhing movements [typically of hands]
What is the most common sleep disorder?
Insomnia
Define Acute Insomnia?
Few days - 3 months, usually results of stressful events
Define Chronic Insomnia?
> 3 months
What is Restless leg syndrome?
Urge to move legs, accompanied/caused by uncomfortable sensations in legs, worsening during periods of rest and is relieved by movement
What are the supportive features of Restless leg syndrome?
Dopaminergic responsiveness
Positive family history
Presence of periodic limb movements in sleep/wakefulness
Clinical manifestations of Narcolepsy
Narcoleptic sleep attacks Distrubed night sleep Cataplexy Hallucination/Automatic behaviors Sleep paralysis
Comorbid conditions associated with Narcolepsy?
Periodic limb movements Sleep Apnea Rem sleep behavior disorder Eating disorders Increased BMI DM
What is narcolepsy?
Irresistible desire to fall asleep at inappropriate times
Pathophysiology of narcolepsy?
Depletion of hypocretin neurons in lateral and prefrontal region of hypothalamus
Diagnostic test of narcolepsy?
Decreased hypocretin 1 in CSF
HLA-DQB1-0602 in Ch.6
Presentation of Narcolepsy?
Agr 15-30, runs in family 1-2 of first degree relatives
What are parasomnias?
Abnormal movements that occur in sleeper during arousals from sleep, with preserved sleep architecture
In general, how do infectious microorganisms cause disease in the CNS?
Direct invasion of neuronal tissue
Production of neurotoxin
Immune response incited by pathogen
Infection by which microorganisms present acutely?
Viral and Bacterial [mostly]
Infection by which microorganisms present sub-acutely/chronically?
Mycobacterium [+Neurosyphilis] Fungal Parasitic Spirochetal
What signs and symptoms indicate meningitis?
Fever
Neck Rigidity
Headache
Vomiting
What signs and symptoms indicate encephalitis?
Seizures
Altered sensorium
What are the causes of infectious encephalitis?
Viral [Commonest] Bacterial Fungal Autoimmune Para/Post-Infectious
What are the clinical features of focal encephalitis?
Changes in : Consciousness Alert Behavior Personality Focal seizures
What are the clinical features of generalized encephalitis?
Generalized seizures Altered sensorium Confusion Coma Irritability Confusion Disorientation Prodrome [Fever, headache, Body aches, and N &V]
What is the most serious cause of encephalitis and its pathogenesis?
HSV 1 , Through the olfactory nerves
Describe the clinical presentation of Generalized encephalitis?
Acute onset
Generalized seizures
Neurological deficit [possible]
Describe the clinical presentation of Focal encephalitis
Subacute onesie
Focal seizures
Neurological deficit
What are the clinical features of Generalized encephalitis?
Headache Fever Vomiting Agitation Restlessness Altered sensorium Unconsciousness
What are the clinical features of Focal encephalitis?
Conscious with behavioral or personality changes
What are the investigative tests for encephalitis?
Routine lab tests Blood Cultures CSF exam PCR Serology by detection of antibodies in CSF CT/MRI EEG
What does CSF of an encephalitic patient show?
CSF analysis
↑ protein
Normal glucose
Lymphocytic pleocytosis
What viral causes of encephalitis are treatable?
VCZ
HSV
CMV
What is the empirical treatment for encephalitis?
Acyclovir
When is acyclovir withdrawn in encephalitis patients?
If HSV+ VCZ excluded
What is the symptomatic management of encephalitis?
Mannitol for cerebral edema
Anticonvulsants for seizures
Steroids
What are the complications of Encephalitis?
Brain edema Personality changes Memory problems SIADH Intellectual disorders Lack of muscle coordination Paralysis Epilepsy Hearing or vision defects Speech impairment Coma Death
What is the common etiology of Generalized encephalitis?
Viral, short-lived
What is the common etiology of Focal encephalitis?
HSV
Autoimmune
What is the cause of HSE?
Reactivation of virus lying dormant in trigeminal ganglion
What investigations are used to diagnose HSE?
CSF analysis HSV PCR CT: uni/bilateral temporal lobe lesion EEG Repeat all investigation after 4 days if initially negative
Prognosis of HSE
Mortality > 70% with severe long term neurological sequelae
W/treatment ~30% but with severe disabilities
Describe the clinical presentation of viral meningitis
Acute onset and symptoms may follow a preceding flu-like symptoms
Fever and severe headache
Meningeal irritation, N &V, rashes
Less common: Diarrhea, myalgia, cough
What are the most common causes of viral meningitis?
Enterovirus
HSV 1
HSV2
CSF analysis of Viral meningitis
Normal/ ↑ protein
Normal glucose
Lymphocytic pleocytosis
Normal or slightly elevated opening pressure
When is IV acyclovir indicated in viral meningitis?
HSV 1/HSV 2
VCZ
What is the prognosis of viral meningitis?
Self limited infections, with adults making a complete recovery within 7-10 days
Sequelae of Viral meningitis in children?
Seizures
Hydrocephalus
Sensorineural hearing loss
Cognitive/behavioral abnormalities
Describe the presentation of acute bacterial meningitis in elderly patients
Possibly atypical with no signs of meningeal irritation, just non-specific confusion
What investigations are used to diagnose bacterial meningitis?
CSF exam [gold standard] CT- possible sulcal effacement MRI- T2- hyperintensity in sulci T1- enhancement of leptomeninges within sulci DWI- diffusion restriction in sulci
What does CSF examination in bacterial meningitis patient reveal?
↑ protein
↓↓ glucose
Pleomorphic pleocytosis
What is the empirical treatment of acute bacterial meningitis?
Vancomycin
Ceftriaxone / Cefotaxime
Dexamethasone
Prognosis of bacterial TB?
Mortality /Morbidity 18-40%
Who has a poor prognosis in bacterial meningitis?
Extreme ages
Immunocompromised
Late onset seizures [ > 4 days]
Long duration before starting treatment
What are the immediate complications of bacterial meningitis?
Coma Loss of airway reflexes Seizures Cerebral edema Vasomotor collapse DIC Respiratory arrest Dehydration Pericardial effusion Death
What are the delayed complications of bacterial meningitis?
Seizure disorder Focal paralysis Subdural effusion Hydrocephalus Intellectual deficits Sensorineural hearing loss Ataxia Blindness bilateral adrenal hemorrhage Death
Define Chronic meningitis
Meningitis lasting longer than a month without improvement
What are the common causes of Chronic meningitis?
Chronic bacterial or fungal infections
TB Cryptococcal Syphilis Cysticercosis Lyme
What conditions are commonly seen in patients with TBM?
Mild anemia
Hyponatremia
Subcortical strokes
What is tuberculous vasculopathy?
A complication of TB
Multiple or bilateral lesions in territories of MCA perforating vessels
What investigations must be done to diagnose TBM?
MRI PPD [possible] CSF analysis ↑ protein ↓ glucose Lymphocytic pleocytosis PCR Culture
Treatment for TBM?
Isoniazid Rifampin Pyrazinamide Ethambutol Dexamethasone [initial phase]
What are the neurological sequelae associated with TB?
Developmental delay in children
Seizures
Hydrocephalus
CN palsies
Prognosis of TBM?
Death in 50% of cases
Mortality of TMB
Greatest in >5 yrs or 50 yrs< or illness longer than 2 months
What are the causative microorganisms of brain abscess?
Streptococci [60-70%] Bacteroides Enterobacteriaceae Staphylococcus aureus S. milleri
What are the rare causative microorganism of brain abscess?
Nocardia
Listeria
What is the treatment for brain abscesses?
Ceftriaxone Metronidazole [anaerobes] Surgical drainage [If >2.5 cm If neurologically unstable If decreased consciousness]
What are the causes of subdural empyema?
Extension of sinusitis
Otitis media
What is the treatment for subdural empyema?
Ceftriaxone
Metronidazole [anaerobes]
Surgical drainage
What are the pain-sensitive intracranial structures?
Blood vessels [vasodilation is painful]
Meninges
Nerves
What are the pain-sensitive extracranial structures?
Scalp
Joints
Muscles
Teeth, Eyes and Ears
What is the prevalence of headaches?
96-99%
>90% are benign
What are the 5 mechanisms of Headaches?
Traction on major vessels or meninges
Distension of arteries
Inflammation near pain-sensitive structures
Direct pressure on cranial arteries or cervical nerves
Sustained contraction of scalp/neck muscles
How do you differentiate between primary and secondary headaches?
History [onset, severity, systemic features]
What are the redflags for secondary headaches?
Systemic symptoms Secondary risk factor Neurological symptoms Onset Older age [new onset or progressive pain] Pregnancy Postural aggravation Papilledema Previous history of headache Precipitated by valsalva
What condition is associated with older onset of headaches ?
Giant cell arteritis
What are some vascular causes of headaches?
Stroke
SAH
Intracerebral hemorrhage
What are some infectious causes of headaches?
Meningitis
Sinusitis
Post-herpetic neuralgia
What are some inflammatory causes of headaches?
Temporal arteritis
What are some drug-related causes of headaches?
Nitrates
Caffeine withdrawal
Sympathomimetics
What are some metabolic / systemic causes of headaches?
Anemia Hypercalcemia Renal Failure Hypoxia Hypercarbia
What are some ophthalmologic causes of headaches?
Glaucoma
Ischemia
What are some conditions that cause decreased ICP and headaches?
Post-Lumbar puncture
Spontaneous Intracranial hypotension
What are some conditions that cause increased ICP and headaches?
Mass
Hypertension
Pseudotumor/Idiopathic Intracranial hypertension
What are the primary headache disorders?
Migraine
Tension
TACs [Cluster, Paroxysmal Hemicrania, SUNCT and Hemicrania continua]
Others [Trigeminal Neuralgia and Occipital neuralgia
What is associated with Migraines?
Nausea and Vomiting
What type of migraine is common?
Without aura
What is the severity of Migraine headaches?
Moderate to severe intensity
What are the auras of migraines?
Photophobia
Phonophobia
Osmophobia
What is the commonest aura of migraines?
Photophobia
What are the complications of migraine?
Stroke Seizures Status migrainosus [ >72hrs ] Chronic migraines Persistent migraine w/o infarction
What is the clinical presentation of Childhood Migraines?
Benign Paroxysmal Vertigo
Cyclic Vomiting
Abdominal migraines
What is used to treat acute migraines?
Analgesia
Triptans
How can we educate Migraine patients?
Avoid triggers
Diary documenting their headaches [timings, frequency, relation to menses]
Patients shouldn’t abuse analgesic treatments
T/F: There are no preventative treatments for Migraines.
False, there are some preventative methods such as monoclonal antibodies against CGRB
What is the commonest reported headache? Commonest primary headache?
Reported: migraine
Primary: Tension
What are Tension headaches?
Tight band on the head
What conditions are associated with Tension headaches?
Stress
Depression
Associated with medication-overuse headaches
What is the severity of Cluster headaches?
Severe to very severe
Describe the state of patient with Cluster headaches
Suicidal and unable to sleep
What is the duration of Cluster headaches?
15-180 min
What is used to treat Cluster headaches?
Abortive and prophylactic treatment [oxygen mask]
What is the severity of Paroxysmal hemicrania?
Moderate pain
What is used to treat Paroxysmal hemicrania?
Indomethacin
What is the duration of Paroxysmal hemicrania?
2-30 minutes , episodic or chronic
What type of headache is very rare and difficult to treat?
SUNCT headaches
What does SUNCT stand for?
Short lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform headache w/ Conjunctival injection and Tearing
What is the duration of SUNCT headaches?
1-600 sec
What is the severity of Hemicrania continua?
Mild to moderate pain
What type of headache is associated with autonomic features?
Hemicrania continua and other TAC headaches
What autonomic features are associated with TAC headaches?
Ptosis Miosis Facial swelling Tearing Nasal Congestion
What is the duration of hemicrania continua headaches?
Continuous
Define Neuralgia
Very sharp pain in seconds that can happen several times a day
What structures are affected in Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Maxillary [V2] and Mandibular [V3] divisions of the trigeminal nerve [CN5]
What is used to treat Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Carbamazepine
What structure is affected in Occipital neuralgia?
C2- Occipital region of head
Onset of AD?
> 65 yrs.
What pathological findings of AD?
Extracellularly: aB
Intracellularly: Tau
What are the risks of AD?
Vascular TBI Sleep Disturbances TREM2 ADOE E4 alleles
What factors may reduce the risk of AD?
Increased formal education
Physical activities
Social engagement
What is the hallmark findings of Early onset AD?
Disproportionately decreased repetition of sentences
Presentation of Posterior Cortical Atrophy
Progressive and Disproportional loss of visuospatial and visuoperceptiual
Differences of presentation of Early onset and Late onset Ad?
Early onset has better memory recognition score and semantic memory compared to late onset
Pathological differences between Early onset and Late onset Ad?
Early onset: Posterior Cingulate
Late onset: Medial temporal lobe
What is the second most common cause of Early-onset AD?
Posterior Cortical Atrophy
What are the core clinical features of Lewy-body dementia?
Fluctuating cognition
Recurrent Visual Hallucination
REM Sleep Behaviors
Cardinal Features of Parkinsonisms
What are the supportive clinical features of Lewy-body dementia?
Hypersomnia/Hyposomnia Hallucination Systemic Delusions Apathy Severe Autonomic Dysfunction Repeated Falls/Postural Instability Syncope Severe sensitivity to Antipsychotic agents
What is the hallmark of Delirium?
Acute impairment of cognition with fluctuating course
Criteria for Delirium
Acute Onset + Fluctuating course
Inattention
Disorganized Thinking
Altered levels of Consciousness
Criteria for Persistent Vegetative state?
1 month
Criteria for Permanent Vegetative state?
3 months
6 months in TBIs
What is the afferent limb for light reflex?
Optic nerve
What is the efferent limb for light reflex?
Oculomotor nerve
What findings are consistent with total loss of afferent limb of light reflex?
No direct or consensual reflex in affected eye
What findings are consistent with partial loss of afferent limb of light reflex?
Partial constriction
Both eyes dilate
Findings of Optic Neuritis
Central Scotoma
Optic Disc swelling [2/3 retrobulbar]
Causes of Mydriasis?
CN 3 Palsy
Cocaine
Atropine
Causes of Miosis?
Horner’s Syndrome
Tertiary Syphilis
Morphine
Pilocarpine
Where is a lesion located if patient say he sees a “pie on the floor”?
Parietal lobe
Where is a lesion located if patient say he sees a “pie in the sky”?
Temporal lobe
Complete loss of vision in one eye
Optic nerve
Bitemporal hemianopia
Optic Chiasma
Homonymous Hemianopia
Optic tract
UR Quadrant hemianopia
Lower fibers in temporal lobe
LR Quadran hemianopia
Lower fibers in parietal lobe [anterior]
Homonymous Hemianopia w/macular sparing
Lower fibers in parietal lobe [posterior]
Lesion in Pontine/Midbrain would produce?
eyes deviate toward hemiparesis [wrong way gaze]
Vertical gaze [midbrain]
Abducent nerve [pontine]
Lesion in Hemisphere would produce?
away from hemiparesis
What structure is affected in Internuclear Opthalmoplegia?
MLF
What are some causes of Internuclear Opthalmoplegia?
MS
Brainstem infarcts
Findings in Internuclear Opthalmoplegia?
Side of lesion is the same side that fails to adduct:
1- Abduction [normal]
2-Adduction [eye on side of lesion fails to adduct]
3- Normal eye nystagmus
4- Affected eye fails to adduct