MRI Scans May Hold Answers For Locked-In Syndrome
Locked-In Syndrome is a condition where one is conscious and aware, but the entire body is paralyzed except for eye movement.
Researchers at the UT Health San Antonio have made a discovery in the field of pediatrics. Using MRI scans, the researchers analyzed ten children with anoxic brain injuries (ABI) in various stages of Locked-In Syndrome.
They found that the region of the brain affected by ABI is not as widespread as they once thought. The pattern was concentrated in a small motor pathway supplied by a certain set of arteries. This type of brain injury is called a focal stroke. According to Peter T. Fox, M.D., professor in the Joe R. & Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine at UT Health San Antonio, a focal stroke could be treated earlier on at the hospital.
“In the imaging studies we see preservation of visual, auditory, tactile and cognitive networks,” stated Dr. Fox. He continued, “And predictably, we also see damage to motor pathways and networks.” He added, “This is a new syndrome. It’s not taught in medical school. This is all new neuroscience.”
While there is no cure for Locked-In Syndrome yet, knowing where the damage occurs can lead to treatment and possible prevention when drowning victims are resuscitated is promising to researchers.
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