Pattern Recognition- Neuroanatomical Localisation Flashcards
What will focal weakness be like?
In distribution of peripheral nerve or spinal root
Hemi-distribution (one side of the body)
Pyramidal distribution
What will non-focal weakness be like?
Generalised
Predominantly proximal or distal
If truly generalized: including bulbar motor function otherwise quadri- or tetraparesis
What is the distribution of UMN weakness?
Corticospinal distribution; hemiparesis, quadriparesis, paraparesis, monoparesis, faciobrachial
What is the distribution of LMN weakness?
Generalized, predominantly proximal, distal or focal
No preferential involvement of corticospinal innervated muscles.
How will sensory loss in UMN appear?
Central patterm
How will sensory loss in LMN appear?
None, glove, stocking, peripheral nerve or root distribution
How will deep tendon reflexes change in UMN weakness?
Increased (unless very acute (flaccid)
How will deep tendon reflexes change in LMN weakness?
Normal or decreased
How will superficial reflexes change in UMN weakness?
Decreased
How will superficial reflexes change in LMN weakness?
Normal
How will pathological reflexes change in UMN weakness?
Increased
How will pathological reflexes change in LMN weakness?
Normal
How will sphincter function change in UMN weakness?
Sometimes impaired
How will sphincter function change in LMN weakness?
Usually normal (unless for example cauda equine lesion)
How will muscle tone change in UMN weakness?
Increased
How will muscle tone change in LMN weakness?
Normal or decreased
How will muscle bulk change in UMN weakness?
Sometimes hypertrophy
How will muscle bulk change in LMN weakness?
Wasting
Will there be other CNS signs in UMN weakness?
Possibly
Will there be other CNS signs in LMN weakness?
No
What is the UMN weakness pattern?
Increased tone
Brisk reflexes
Pyramidal/corticospinal pattern (=weak extensors in arm, weak flexors in legs)
What is the LMN weakness pattern?
Wasting Fasciculation Decreased tone Decreased or absent reflexes Flexor plantars
What is the pattern of weakness in muscle disease?
Wasting (usually proximal)
Decreased tone
Decreased or absent tendon reflexes
What is the pattern of weakness in NMJ dysfunction?
Fatiguable weakness
Normal or decreased tone
Normal tendon reflexes
No sensory symptoms