Basal ganglia dysfunction |
| Definition: |
| Basal ganglia dysfunction involves dysfunction of the basal ganglia, a brain region involved in motor control and movement.
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| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: |
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Numerous brain disorders can cause basal ganglia dysfunction, including Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, progressive supranuclear palsy, corticobasal degeneration, multiple system atrophy, Wilson disease, and dystonia. In addition, any insult to the brain can potentially damage the basal ganglia including strokes, metabolic abnormalities, liver disease, multiple sclerosis, infections, tumors, drug overdoses or side effects, and head trauma. When the basal ganglia are damaged, control over functions such as speech and movement can be impaired. Difficulties with initiating movement, sustaining movement and stopping movement are all possible when this area is injured. |
| Symptoms: |
| Symptoms vary and may include tremor, slowing of movements, difficulty walking, rigidity, involuntary movements, muscle spasms, increased muscle tone, and tics (uncontrollable, repeated movements, speech, or cries). |
| Signs and tests: |
| A thorough neurological assessment should be performed. Depending on the outcome of this evaluation, blood tests and possibly imaging studies of the brain may be required. |
| Treatment: |
| Treatment depends on the cause of the disorder. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| Prognosis depends on the cause of the dysfunction. Some causes are reversible; others require lifelong treatment. |
| Calling your health care provider: |
| Call your health care provider if you have any abnormal or involuntary movements. |
Reviewed By: Elaine T. Kiriakopoulos, M.D., MSc, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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