Transient nonverbal learning disorder in a child suffering from Familial Hemiplegic Migraine

Abstract

To study the link between nonverbal learning disorder and right cerebral hemisphere dysfunction due to migraine attack in a case of Familial Hemiplegic Migraine. Familial Hemiplegic Migraine can cause neuropsychological deficits besides the motor ones. The nonverbal learning disorder is thought to be caused by a right hemisphere dysfunction. We describe a child with Familial Hemiplegic Migraine type 2 who showed a transient neuropsychological impairment featuring a nonverbal learning disorder during and after a Hemiplegic migraine attack. Clinical and neuropsychological data showed a nonverbal learning disorder. A mutation in the ATP1A2 gene on chromosome 1q23 was found. Symptoms of nonverbal learning disorder outlasted the left hemiparesis. Two months later he showed a full recovery. Neurophysiological and neuroradiological evaluations were congruent with clinical course and with right hemisphere involvement. The link between nonverbal learning disorder and right cerebral hemisphere dysfunction due to migraine attack is confirmed. Familial Hemiplegic Migraine can cause transient complex neuropsychological syndromes that can be overlooked if not appropriately investigated.