Bilateral paramedian thalamic infarct: A report of five cases

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to analyze the incidence, etiology, symptoms, diagnostic process and treatment of bilateral thalamic infarct on the basis of our own experience. Case series: Five cases of bilateral paramedian thalamic stroke with different clinical manifestations are presented. In two patients the presence of artery of Percheron was detected. Comment: The bilateral thalamic infarct is an unusual and rare type of ischemic stroke. Due to the variety of symptoms, it may be difficult to diagnose without MR imaging. Symptoms may be transient, but frequently a persistent neurological deficit is observed. The thalamus is the “centre” for all impulses reaching the brain. It is involved in cognitive functions, emotional and motor responses. Therefore, impaired consciousness and behavioral changes are the main symptoms of thalamic stroke.