Transient Aphasia Research Articles

Clinical characteristics of post-stroke basal ganglia aphasia and the study of language-related white matter tracts based on diffusion spectrum imaging

BackgroundStroke often damages the basal ganglia, leading to atypical and transient aphasia, indicating that post-stroke basal ganglia aphasia (PSBGA) may be related to different anatomical structural damage and functional remodeling rehabilitation mechanisms. The basal ganglia contain dense white matter tracts (WMTs). Hence, damage to the functional tract may be an essential anatomical structural basis for the development of PSBGA. MethodsWe first analyzed the clinical characteristics of PSBGA in 28 patients and 15 healthy controls (HCs) using the Western Aphasia Battery and neuropsychological test batteries. Moreover, we investigated white matter injury during the acute stage using diffusion magnetic resonance imaging scans for differential tractography. Finally, we used multiple regression models in correlation tractography to analyze the relationship between various language functions and quantitative anisotropy (QA) of WMTs. ResultsCompared with HCs, patients with PSBGA showed lower scores for fluency, comprehension (auditory word recognition and sequential commands), naming (object naming and word fluency), reading comprehension of sentences, Mini-Mental State Examination, and Montreal Cognitive Assessment, along with increased scores in Hamilton Anxiety Scale-17 and Hamilton Depression Scale-17 within 7 days after stroke onset (P < 0.05). Differential tractography revealed that patients with PSBGA had damaged fibers, including in the body fibers of the corpus callosum, left cingulum bundles, left parietal aslant tracts, bilateral superior longitudinal fasciculus II, bilateral thalamic radiation tracts, left fornix, corpus callosum tapetum, and forceps major, compared with HCs (FDR < 0.02). Correlation tractography highlighted that better comprehension was correlated with a higher QA of the left inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus (IFOF), corpus callosum forceps minor, and left extreme capsule (FDR < 0.0083). Naming was positively associated with the QA of the left IFOF, forceps minor, left arcuate fasciculus, and uncinate fasciculus (UF) (FDR < 0.0083). Word fluency of naming was also positively associated with the QA of the forceps minor, left IFOF, and thalamic radiation tracts (FDR < 0.0083). Furthermore, reading was positively correlated with the QA of the forceps minor, left IFOF, and UF (FDR < 0.0083). ConclusionPSBGA is primarily characterized by significantly impaired word fluency of naming and preserved repetition abilities, as well as emotional and cognitive dysfunction. Damaged limbic pathways, dorsally located tracts in the left hemisphere, and left basal ganglia pathways are involved in PSBGA pathogenesis. The results of connectometry analysis further refine the current functional localization model of higher-order neural networks associated with language functions.

Function-guided differences of arcuate fascicle and inferior fronto-occipital fascicle tractography as diagnostic indicators for surgical risk stratification.

Several patients with language-eloquent gliomas face language deterioration postoperatively. Persistent aphasia is frequently associated with damage to subcortical language pathways. Underlying mechanisms still need to be better understood, complicating preoperative risk assessment. This study compared qualitative and quantitative functionally relevant subcortical differences pre- and directly postoperatively in glioma patients with and without aphasia. Language-relevant cortical sites were defined using navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS) language mapping in 74 patients between 07/2016 and 07/2019. Post-hoc nTMS-based diffusion tensor imaging tractography was used to compare a tract's pre- and postoperative visualization, volume and fractional anisotropy (FA), and the preoperative distance between tract and lesion and postoperative overlap with the resection cavity between the following groups: no aphasia (NoA), tumor- or previous resection induced aphasia persistent pre- and postoperatively (TIA_P), and surgery-induced transient or permanent aphasia (SIA_T or SIA_P). Patients with NoA, TIA_P, SIA_T, and SIA_P showed distinct fasciculus arcuatus (AF) and inferior-fronto-occipital fasciculus (IFOF) properties. The AF was more frequently reconstructable, and the FA of IFOF was higher in NoA than TIA_P cases (all p ≤ 0.03). Simultaneously, SIA_T cases showed higher IFOF fractional anisotropy than TIA_P cases (p < 0.001) and the most considerable AF volume loss overall. While not statistically significant, the four SIA_P cases showed complete loss of ventral language streams postoperatively, the highest resection-cavity-AF-overlap, and the shortest AF to tumor distance. Functionally relevant qualitative and quantitative differences in AF and IFOF provide a pre- and postoperative pathophysiological and clinically relevant diagnostic indicator that supports surgical risk stratification.

Middle temporal gyrus approach to mesial temporal lobe tumours in children.

To assess whether the middle temporal gyrus (MTG) approach to mesial temporal lobe (MTL) tumours is an effective procedure for the treatment of epilepsy in children. MTL tumours are a common cause of drug-resistant epilepsy in children. There is as yet no consensus regarding their treatment. One possibility is resection via a MTG approach. We assessed the medical records of patients treated at the Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Memorial Health Institute,Warsaw, Poland between 2002 and 2020. A prospectively maintained database including clinical, laboratory, and radiographic presentation, as well as pre- and post-operative course, was analysed. Patients with at least a one- -year follow-up were included. There were 14 patients aged 4-18 years who underwent a MTG approach for a MTL tumour. All presented with epileptic seizure, and none had neurological deficit on admission to hospital. Median follow-up was 2.5 years. Neuronavigation was used to adjust the approach, localise the temporal horn, and achieve radical resection of the tumour and the hippocampus. Gross total resection was performed in all cases. In most patients, histopathological examination revealed ganglioglioma. One patient had transient aphasia. Two patients developed hemiparesis after surgery, which later improved. One of them also experienced visual disturbances. Acute complications were more frequent in younger patients (p = 0.024). In all cases, MRI confirmed complete resection and there was no tumour recurrence during the follow-up period. 13/14 patients remained seizure-free (Engel class I). The MTG approach to MTL tumours is an effective procedure for the treatment of epilepsy in children. It avoids removal of the lateral temporal lobe and poses only a minor risk of permanent neurological complications.

In situ interposition bypass for complex intracranial aneurysms: A single-center experience and efficacy analysis.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the application and efficacy analysis of in situ interposition bypass in complex intracranial aneurysms. This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 21 patients with complex intracranial aneurysms treated with in situ interposition bypass grafting in the Department of Neurosurgery at Tianjin Huanhu Hospital from June 2015 to December 2022. The aneurysms were located in the middle cerebral artery in 16 cases, the anterior cerebral artery in 3 cases, the posterior cerebral artery in 1 case, and the posterior inferior cerebellar artery in 1 case. The interposition graft vessels were taken from the radial artery in 15 cases, the superficial temporal artery in 5 cases, and the occipital artery in 1 case. All patients underwent end-to-end anastomosis with in situ interposition bypass after aneurysm resection, including 13 cases of "I-shaped" type, 5 cases of "V-shaped" type, and 3 cases of "Y-shaped" type. Postoperative digital subtraction angiography (DSA) or computed tomography angiography (CTA) reviews were performed for all the patients, and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score was used to assess patient prognosis. Three patients developed postoperative basal ganglia infarction and two of them recovered well. One case developed transient incomplete aphasia and one case developed mild hemiparesis, which recovered well after 3months. The remaining 16 patients did not develop new neurological deficits. Postoperative DSA or CTA showed that the anastomosis of the bypass graft and the graft vessels were patent, and all aneurysms were completely eliminated. Regular postoperative follow-up ranged from 3 to 89months, and no aneurysm recurred. The percentage of patients with mRS ≤ 2 at the final follow-up was 90.5%. Based on the experience of surgical treatment in our center, in situ interposition bypass technique is a safe and effective option for the treatment of some complex intracranial aneurysms.

Tumor characteristics guiding selection of channel-based versus open microscopic approaches for resection of atrial intraventricular meningiomas: patient series.

Atrial intraventricular meningiomas (AIMs) are relatively rare and typically deep-seated tumors that can mandate resection. Compared with transsulcal or transcortical open microscopic approaches, port- or channel-based exoscopic approaches have facilitated a less invasive alternative of tumor access and resection. The authors present a case series of seven patients with AIMs who underwent open microscopic versus channel-based exoscopic resection by a senior neurosurgeon at their institution between 2012 and 2022 to understand patient and tumor features that lent themselves to selection of a particular approach. In the patients harboring three AIMs selected for channel-based resection, the average AIM diameter (2.9 vs 5.2 cm) was smaller, the AIMs were deeper from the cortical surface (2.5 vs 1.1 cm), and the patients had a shorter average postoperative length of stay (3.3 vs 5.8 days) compared with the four patients who underwent open resection. Gross-total resection was achieved in all cases. Complications for both groups included transient homonymous hemianopsia and aphasia. No recurrences were identified over the follow-up period. The authors demonstrate that channel-based exoscopic resection is safe and effective for AIMs 3 cm in diameter and over 2 cm deep. This may help guide neurosurgeons in future approach selection based on tumor features, including size/volume, location, and depth from cortical surface.

IMMU-45. REVERSIBLE PARKINSONISM AFTER BCMA-DIRECTED CAR T CELL ADMINISTRATION

Abstract B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-targeting chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)T cell therapy has revolutionized the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (MM), resulting in FDA-approval of two products, idecabtagene vicleucel (ide-cel) and ciltacabtagene autoleucel (cilta-cel). In addition to immune effector cell associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS), a novel hypokinetic movement disorder resembling parkinsonism has been reported with BCMA-targeting CAR. Cases reported to date have been irreversible or fatal, and guidance on how to manage this complication is limited. Here we describe a patient with MM who developed features of parkinsonism on day 24 post ide-cel infusion which were apparently reversible with supportive care and dexamethasone. A 77 year-old man with MM received standard lymphodepletion followed by ide-cel. He developed grade 1 cytokine release syndrome (CRS) for which he received tociluzumab, followed by transient expressive aphasia (grade 2 ICANS) on day 23. Brain MRI showed no structural abnormality. On day 24 he developed new tremor and gait impairment. Neurologic examination revealed cogwheeling in bilateral wrists, hypomimia, soft speech, and slowed gait. Lumbar puncture and electroencephalogram were unremarkable. FDG-PET brain did not show basal ganglia hypometabolism or abnormal avidity. Lymphocyte percentage was elevated and correlated with a high level of circulating CAR+ T cells. He was started on dexamethasone 10 mg q day, receiving a total of 17 days of steroids with improvement in symptoms. At day 60, ambulation was improved and cogwheeling and hypomimia resolved. By day 90, all neurological symptoms had resolved. Improvement remained sustained as of last follow up day 120. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of steroid responsive parkinsonism after BCMA-CAR therapy. Our report supports close neurological monitoring of patients beyond 30 days after BCMA-CAR and suggests that intervening early in the setting of hypokinetic movement disorders may lead to sustained reversal of symptoms.

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state presenting as transient global aphasia

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) is an emergency condition characterized by severe dehydration secondary to uncontrolled hyperglycemic state in the absence of ketoacidosis. HHS can present with a variety of neurological symptoms including encephalopathy and seizures. In this report, we present a case of acute-onset transient global aphasia in a 65-year-old male with chronic poor glycemic control. Post-evaluation, we establish the etiology of transient global aphasia as HHS in which patient had complete recovery of symptoms following normalization of blood glucose levels.

Approach to A Pregnant Woman with Moyamoya Syndrome

Many female patients with the moyamoya disease have normal fertility functions, including those diagnosed before they enter their childbearing years. Moya moya syndrome (MMS) is a rare cerebrovascular disorder caused by segmentary stenosis and occlusions of the small vessels around the circle of Willis and distal branches of carotid arteries. The name of “moyamoya” means “puff of smoke” in Japanese and describes the look of the tangle of tiny vessels formed to compensate for the blockage. This disorder may presented transient paresis, headache, epilepsy, dementia, aphasia, ataxia, and subarachnoid hemorrhage. Although MMS is considered a disease of unknown etiology, infectious and genetic causes have been blamed. However, there has been no comprehensive review of the management of pregnancy and delivery associated with Moyamoya disease. The purpose of this report is to describe a pregnant woman diagnosed with moyamoya disease and to review the literature on other such cases.

Cerebral revascularization for complex middle cerebral artery aneurysms: surgical strategies and outcomes in a single center

Cerebral revascularization is the ultimate treatment for a subset of complex middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms. The decision for the revascularization strategy should be made during the treatment process. This study aimed to summarize the revascularization strategies for different types of complex MCA aneurysms and their outcomes. The clinical data of patients with complex MCA aneurysms who underwent cerebral revascularization since 2015 were analyzed retrospectively. The aneurysms were classified according to the location and other main characteristics that affect the selection of surgical modalities. The corresponding surgical modalities and treatment outcomes were summarized. A total of 29 patients with 29 complex MCA aneurysms were treated with cerebral revascularization from 2015 to 2022. Treated aneurysms were located at the prebifurcation segment in 7 patients, bifurcation segment in 12 patients, and postbifurcation segment in 10 patients. Surgical modalities in the prebifurcation segment included four high-flow extracranial-to-intracranial (EC-IC) bypasses with aneurysm trapping or proximal occlusion, two IC-IC bypasses with aneurysm excision, and one combination bypass with aneurysm excision. In the bifurcation segment, surgical modalities included two low-flow EC-IC bypasses with aneurysm excision or trapping, six IC-IC bypasses with aneurysm excision, three combination bypasses with aneurysm excision, and one constructive clipping with IC-IC bypass. In the postbifurcation segment, surgical modalities included nine IC-IC bypasses with aneurysm excision and low-flow EC-IC bypass with aneurysm trapping. The revascularization strategy for prebifurcation aneurysms was determined based on the involvement of lenticulostriate arteries, whereas the strategy for bifurcation aneurysms was determined based on the number of distal bifurcations and the shape of the aneurysm. The location of the aneurysm determined the revascularization strategy for aneurysms in the postbifurcation segments. Angiography demonstrated that aneurysms were completely obliterated in 26 cases and shrank in 3 cases, and all bypasses except one were patent. The mean follow-up period was 47.5months. Three patients developed hemiplegic paralysis, and one developed transient aphasia postoperatively due to cerebral ischemia. No new neurological dysfunction occurred in the other 25 patients with no recurrence or enlargement of aneurysms during the follow-up. Prebifurcation aneurysms involving the lenticulostriate arteries require proximal occlusion with high-flow bypass. Most of the other aneurysms can be safely excised or trapped by appropriate revascularization strategies according to their location and orientation.

A227 CTLA-4 DEFICIENCY PRESENTING AS CROHN DISEASE IN A TEENAGE BOY WITH MULTI-SYSTEM INVOLVEMENT : A CASE REPORT

Abstract Background Cytotoxic-T-lymphocyte-antigen-4 is a negative immune regulator. CTLA-4 deficiency can cause a complex immune dysregulation syndrome that may present as inflammatory bowel disease. Purpose Case Description: A 14-year-old male presented with several years of abdominal pain, diarrhea, short stature and poor weight gain. Endocolonoscopy diagnosed Crohn disease, with patchy chronic colitis, an ileal granuloma and active duodenitis with intraepithelial lymphocytosis and villous blunting. MRE showed multiple abnormal small bowel loops. Past history included appendicitis, immune thrombocytopenic purpura and an episode each of Aeromonas, Y enterocolitica and C difficile colitis. Family history was negative for consanguinity, autoimmune conditions or immune defects. The patient received sulfasalazine, exclusive enteral nutrition and then budesonide MMX with limited response. His pre-biologic workup identified bilateral pulmonary nodules, which were negative for infection or malignancy on further investigation. He began Adalimumab, and after 2 months had nearly normalized his fecal calprotectin to 90 ug/g. His history, together with chronic neutropenia and hypogammaglobulinemia (IgG 3.3 g/L, IgA 0.29g/L) led to a comprehensive immune and cytopenia panel, which revealed heterozygous pathogenic variants in the CTLA4 gene c.424G&amp;gt;C, p.(Gly142Arg), associated with CTLA-4 deficiency related immunodeficiency. Parental testing was negative, indicating a de novo mutation. The patient was subsequently admitted to hospital with severe headache and transient aphasia. Brain MRI found hyperintense foci concerning for CTLA-4 deficiency-associated CNS inflammation. He had papilledema and lumbar puncture found increased ICP. During this admission he developed Salmonella sepsis. Repeat chest CT found extensive worsening multifocal parenchymal lesions. Extensive investigations to exclude malignancy or infection were negative, and the lung findings were felt to be Granulomatous and Lymphocytic Interstitial Lung Disease. He had elevated soluble IL-2 receptor level (2884 U/ml) and elevated CD4+PD1+ T cells in peripheral blood. Adalimumab was stopped, and he received IVIg, then Diamox with resolution of headache, followed by pulse methylprednisolone. He has since been maintained on Abatacept (a soluble CTLA-4 analog that inhibits T-cell activation). Follow up soluble IL2 receptor level was normal. PJP prophylaxis was started, as well as prophylactic dosing of IVIg and regular screening for EBV and CMV. Method - Result(s) - Conclusion(s) Discussion: Our patient had CTLA-4 deficiency and immune dysregulation affecting multiple organs (CNS, lung, and intestinal inflammation, autoimmune neutropenia and previous ITP). Abatacept is the preferred steroid-sparing treatment of enteropathy in CTLA-4 deficiency. Soluble IL2 receptor level is an indicator of T cell activation used for treatment monitoring. This case illustrates the importance of considering immune defects even in older children presenting with apparent IBD. Please acknowledge all funding agencies by checking the applicable boxes below None Disclosure of Interest None Declared INTESTINAL DISORDERS

Abstract Number ‐ 122: Minimally symptomatic left M1 occlusion from carotid web

Introduction Minimally symptomatic large vessel occlusion (LVO) is an area of prognostic and management uncertainty. Current guidelines recommend thrombectomy only for patients with NIHSS of 6 or greater when additional timeline and imaging criteria are met. However, patients with initial mild or rapidly improving symptoms with LVO can eventually deteriorate, raising the question of whether all patient with acute LVO should be offered thrombectomy. Methods We present a case of minimally symptomatic M1 occlusion due to ipsilateral carotid web managed without thrombectomy. Results A 42‐year‐old woman with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and hypertension presented to an outside hospital with sudden transient left monocular vision loss, aphasia, right‐side weakness, and dizziness. At the time of presentation (1h from LKW) exam revealed only mild aphasia (NIHSS 1) with normal blood pressure. CTA demonstrated left M1 occlusion with reconstitution of flow at the M2 bifurcation. She was given IV Alteplase and transferred to our center. On 7 h from LKW repeat imaging demonstrated persistence of the left M1 occlusion with an ipsilateral near‐occlusion suspicious for carotid web at the ICA origin, but exam was without deficit. She was monitored closely for neurological deterioration, but remained without significant symptoms. MRA taken the next day demonstrated complete recanalization of the left M1. She was taken to the angiography suite on an outpatient basis for stenting of the carotid web at the origin of the internal carotid artery. Initial diagnostic angiogram revealed near occlusion of the ICA at the origin with post‐stenotic dilation, which was treated with angioplasty and stenting with distal embolic protection. She has remained stable to 8‐month follow‐up with no recurrent stroke. Conclusions Minimally symptomatic LVO presents significant endovascular management uncertainty. While clinical trials support the use of mechanical thrombectomy for significantly symptomatic patients, there is no consensus to guide treatment decisions for patients with minimal symptoms. This uncertainty is driven at least in part by an inability to reliably distinguish between patients who are likely to progress and would benefit from intervention before their collateral circulation fails, and those who will recanalize or develop a compensated chronic occlusion. In this case, our patient received tPA and saw symptom improvement, but this did not remove her M1 occlusion. Angiographic investigation was limited as the patient was asymptomatic, however non‐invasive imaging revealed robust collateralization including reconstitution of MCA flow and left ICA injection failed to opacify the ipsilateral ACA despite patency in recent CT angiography, indicating a right to left flow dominance in circle of Willis collaterals. We opted for close monitoring with follow‐up imaging and outpatient correction of the carotid web, which resulted in a positive outcome. More work is needed to establish criteria to predict which patients with minimally symptomatic LVO are likely to progress.

Laser interstitial thermal therapy for the treatment of insular lesions: A systematic review.

The surgical treatment of insular lesions has been historically associated with high morbidity. Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) has been increasingly used in the treatment of insular lesions, commonly neoplastic or epileptogenic. Stereotaxis is used to guide laser probes to the insula where real-time magnetic resonance thermometry defines lesion creation. There is an absence of previously published reviews on insular LITT, despite a rapid uptake in use, making further study imperative. Here we present a systematic review of the PubMed and Scopus databases, examining the reported clinical indications, outcomes, and adverse effects of insular LITT. A review of the literature revealed 10 retrospective studies reporting on 53 patients (43 pediatric and 10 adults) that were treated with insular LITT. 87% of cases were for the treatment of epilepsy, with 89% of patients achieving seizure outcomes of Engle I-III following treatment. The other 13% of cases reported on insular tumors and radiological improvement was seen in all cases following treatment. All but one study reported adverse events following LITT with a rate of 37%. The most common adverse events were transient hemiparesis (29%) and transient aphasia (6%). One patient experienced an intracerebral hemorrhage, which required a decompressive hemicraniectomy, with subsequent full recovery. This systematic review highlights the suitability of LITT for the treatment of both insular seizure foci and insular tumors. Despite the growing use of this technique, prospective studies remain absent in the literature. Future work should directly evaluate the efficacy of LITT with randomized and controlled trials.

Clinical characteristic of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody associated cortical encephalitis in adults and outcomes following glucocorticoid therapy.

To describe the clinical and radiological features, as well as outcomes following glucocorticoid therapy and recurrence in adults suffering from cortical encephalitis associated with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody. The clinical information of nine adult patients suffering from cortical encephalitis associated with MOG antibody admitted to the Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from 2020 to 2022 was systematically reviewed. The clinical symptoms, laboratory data, imaging results, outcomes following glucocorticoid therapy and recurrence were evaluated. A total of 9 patients positive for MOG antibody and suffering from cortical encephalitis were included in our study (55.6% men, median age 29 years, 15-57 years). The most common clinical symptoms included headache (77.8%), fever (66.7%), and generalized seizures (55.6%). Some patients also experienced limb shaking (22.2%), leg numbness (22.2%), transient motor aphasia (11.1%), and vision loss (11.1%). The main features of cerebrospinal fluid () examination were increased intracranial pressure, pleocytosis, and elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein. In addition, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) and MOG antibodies were found in the CSF of 3 patients, and NMDAR, MOG, and glial fibrillary acidic protein antibodies were found in the CSF of 1 patient. All patients were subjected to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the images of eight of them showed T2 and/flair image hyperintense lesions, three showed meningeal or lesion enhancement and four showed white matter lesions, which were mostly located in the midline structures (75%). All patients received glucocorticoid therapy in the acute phase and in remission, and eight of them received an intravenous high dose of methylprednisolone, including one patient who received a simultaneous immunoglobulin therapy. One patient was treated with low-dose prednisolone tablets. Seven (77.8%) patients were wholly recovered at discharge, and 2 (22.2%) patients were left with slight symptoms. During the median 9-month follow-up (range: 2-36 months), 2 (22.2%) patients developed recurrence. The clinical manifestations of adult MOG antibody-associated cortical encephalitis were significantly different from those of the typical MOG antibody-associated disease (MOGAD). Patients in the acute phase of the disease were prone to show signs similar to central nervous system infection, requiring clinicians to have the ability to recognize the disease to avoid misdiagnosis. In addition, seizures were common in MOG antibody-related encephalitis, and the type of seizures was age-related. Brain MRI results showed that the distribution of cerebral cortex lesions was closely related to the classification of cortical encephalitis. Based on the patient's response to the treatment, glucocorticoid therapy was effective against MOG antibody-associated cortical encephalitis, which is consistent with the treatment response and clinical prognosis of MOGAD. Therefore, our opinion was that MOG antibody might be the "responsible antibody" in MOG antibody-associated cortical encephalitis, although further studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis.

5-ALA-guided tumor resection during awake speech mapping in gliomas located in eloquent speech areas: Single-center experience.

BackgroundAchieving maximal functionally safe resection of gliomas located within the eloquent speech areas is challenging, and there is a lack of literature on the combined use of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) guidance and awake craniotomy.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to describe our experience with the simultaneous use of 5-ALA fluorescence and awake speech mapping in patients with left frontal gliomas located within the vicinity of eloquent speech areas.Materials and methodsA prospectively collected database of patients was reviewed. 5-ALA was administered at a dose of 20 mg/kg 2 h prior to operation, and an operating microscope in BLUE400 mode was used to visualize fluorescence. All patients underwent surgery using the “asleep–awake–asleep” protocol with monopolar and bipolar electrical stimulation to identify the proximity of eloquent cortex and white matter tracts and to guide safe limits of resection along with fluorescence guidance. Speech function was assessed by a trained neuropsychologist before, during, and after surgery.ResultsIn 28 patients operated with cortical mapping and 5-ALA guidance (12 Grade 4, 6 Grade 3, and 10 Grade 2 gliomas), Broca’s area was identified in 23 cases and Wernicke’s area was identified in 5 cases. Fluorescence was present in 14 cases. Six tumors had residual fluorescence due to the positive speech mapping in the tumor bed. Transient aphasia developed in 14 patients, and permanent aphasia developed in 4 patients. In 6 patients operated with cortical and subcortical speech mapping and 5-ALA guidance (4 Grade 4, 1 Grade 3, and 1 Grade 2 gliomas), cortical speech areas were mapped in 5 patients and subcortical tracts were encountered in all cases. In all cases, resection was stopped despite the presence of residual fluorescence due to speech mapping findings. Transient aphasia developed in 6 patients and permanent aphasia developed in 4 patients. In patients with Grade 2–3 gliomas, targeted biopsy of focal fluorescence areas led to upgrading the grade and thus more accurate diagnosis.Conclusion5-ALA guidance during awake speech mapping is useful in augmenting the extent of resection for infiltrative high-grade gliomas and identifying foci of anaplasia in non-enhancing gliomas, while maintaining safe limits of functional resection based on speech mapping. Positive 5-ALA fluorescence in diffuse Grade 2 gliomas may be predictive of a more aggressive disease course.

A case of transient aphasia induced by non-ketotic hyperglycemia

A case of transient aphasia induced by non-ketotic hyperglycemia

Reactivation of Disseminated Histoplasmosis With Central Nervous System Involvement Following a Primary Gastrointestinal Histoplasmosis Infection: A Case Report

A 78-year-old white male with chronic pancytopenia presented with acute transient aphasia and dysarthria. He had a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) of zero. Physical examination revealed slight aphasia with mild dysarthria. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed nine ring-enhancing lesions in the left precentral gyrus with significant vasogenic edema. Lung computed tomography (CT) showed no evidence of pulmonary nodules. The serology of blood and urine for infectious organisms was negative. Four weeks later, the patient was re-admitted with worsening dysarthria and right upper extremity weakness. Repeat head MRI showed a slight increase in the size of the multiple supratentorial ring-enhancing lesions. The magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) findings of the evaluated lesion suggested a fungal etiology. Empiric amphotericin B treatment was initiated, which mitigated central nervous system (CNS) ring-enhancing lesions and resolved the patient’s neurological deficits. Early empiric medical treatment of CNS histoplasmosis should be considered in the setting of multiple CNS ring-enhancing lesions and a positive history of histoplasmosis infection, despite negative serological studies.

The Lateral Supraorbital Craniotomy Approach for Anterior Circulation Aneurysms: A Modern Surgical Case Series in the Endovascular Era

The lateral supraorbital (LSO) approach is a minimally invasive modification of the standard pterional approach to anterior circulation aneurysms. This study aimed to describe a dual-trained cerebrovascular neurosurgeon's first 18-month experience with the LSO approach, including decision-making criteria and lessons learned. This retrospective case series analyzed 50 consecutive patients treated with LSO craniotomy for aneurysm clipping by a single surgeon. Aneurysms were separated into 3 categories by location: internal carotid artery, anterior communicating artery, and middle cerebral artery. Surgical characteristics were evaluated for differences by location and rupture status. Aneurysm clipping via LSO was performed on 57 aneurysms in 50 patients. Fixed retraction was employed less often in patients with internal carotid artery aneurysms than in patients with anterior communicating artery, middle cerebral artery, or multiple aneurysms (10% vs. 68.2%, 45.5%, and 42.9, P= 0.02). Of patients, 26 (52%) presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage; the majority of patients (92.3%) had Hunt and Hess grade I-III. No differences were noted in intraoperative rupture rates, fixed retractor use, operative duration, or estimated blood loss by rupture status. Adverse events included permanent frontalis nerve palsy in 1 patient (2%), temporalis atrophy in 1 patient, and transient aphasia in 1 patient. No postoperative hematomas or strokes were observed. The LSO approach can safely and effectively treat anterior circulation aneurysms and should be considered a viable minimally invasive option for aneurysm clipping. Further studies comparing the LSO approach with other cranial approaches are needed.

Bing-Neel Syndrome: Real-Life Experience in Personalized Diagnostic Approach and Treatment.

The involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) in Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare extramedullary manifestation of the disease known as Bing-Neel syndrome (BNS). To expand our understanding of this disease manifestation, we conducted a retrospective analysis of the incidence of BNS in 86 consecutive patients with WM [70% male, median age 65 years (range 33-86)] seen in our center during a 30-year period. Six patients (7%) from this group were diagnosed with BNS. The median period of time between WM diagnosis and BNS diagnosis was 6.8 years (range 2.3-15). They demonstrated a range of neurological deficits, including transient expressive aphasia, impaired vision, resting hand tremor, foot drop, and headache. Between the onset of symptoms and the diagnosis of BNS, the median time interval was 12.5 months (range 1-30). The diagnosis was made not on the basis of neurological symptoms or radiological evidence, but on the basis of the presence of WM cells in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Intrathecal chemotherapy with methotrexate, cytarabine, and dexamethasone (IT MTX, ARA-C, DEX) was used as front-line treatment, followed by intensive immunochemotherapy with rituximab, high-dose MTX, and ARA-C (R-Hi MTX/ARA-C) in three patients who were fit enough to receive this type of cytotoxic regimen, and rituximab plus bendamustine (R-Benda) in two patients who simultaneously required treatment for WM. Ibrutinib was administered to five patients (three as consolidation and two for initial treatment). All patients responded to front-line treatment, with four (67%) achieving partial response (PR) and two (33%) achieving complete response (CR). This study provides insight into the clinical presentation, diagnostic and treatment options, as well as the outcome of patients who have BNS.

Pre-induction Jerky limb movements on operation table – Is it transient ischemic attack

Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a diagnostic challenge for all physicians due to the temporariness of symptoms and the absence of any definitive diagnostic test. There is a very high risk of TIA being followed by an ischemic stroke, hence require urgent investigation and preventive strategies. At the same time, it is also important to distinguish TIA from other close differentials, to avoid wrong diagnoses leading to harmful, misdirected medical management. In this report, we will discuss the case of a middle-aged male patient with stable pre-operative vitals who was posted for total parotidectomy and suddenly developed jerky movement of the upper limb and transient aphasia on the operation theater table along with raised blood pressure. This is a very rare presentation of TIA that needs to be differentiated from other close differentials as this form is mostly associated with severe carotid occlusive disease and, hence, carries a high risk of stroke.

Bilateral Internal Carotid Artery Dissection as a Possible Complication in a patient with Covid-19 infections and coughing.

Background:Cervical carotid dissection is one of the causes of ischemic stroke in young people. Most of the patients with carotid dissection do not have connective tissue diseases (Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome). It seems that dissection may occur without an obvious cause or may follow environmental injuries like vigorous neck movements, chiropractic manipulation, emesis, severe coughs, and some infections. We present a case of bilateral carotid dissection in a patient following coronavirus infection and severe coughs.Case Presentation:A 38-year-old right-handed man presented with recurrent episodes of transient right hemiparesis and aphasia. He had a history of coronavirus infection and severe persistent, nonproductive cough 7 days before the onset of his symptoms. Carotid angiography showed tapered flame-like appearance in proximal segment of left ICA starting about 2 cm distal to the carotid bulb caused complete occlusion of left ICA and in right CCA angiography there is pseudo aneurysm in right cervical ICA just before the Petrous segment. In 3 months in follow up DSA there is evidence of complete occlusion of right pseudo aneurysm and recanalization of left ICA without stenosis.Conclusion: COVID-19 may have role in the processes that eventually led to CAD