Name of the Condition

• Common name: Neurologic Neglect Syndrome
• Medical term: Hemispatial Neglect

Summary

Neurologic neglect syndrome, also known as hemispatial neglect, is a neuropsychological condition characterized by a lack of awareness or response to stimuli on one side of the body. It often occurs after damage to one hemisphere of the brain, typically following a stroke.

Causes

• Typically caused by brain damage, most commonly from a stroke affecting the right hemisphere, leading to neglect of the left side of space.
• Other causes might include traumatic brain injury or brain tumors.

Risk Factors

• Older age, as the risk of stroke increases with age.
• Medical history of strokes or transient ischemic attacks.
• Pre-existing cardiovascular issues, such as high blood pressure.
• Lifestyle factors like smoking or an unhealthy diet that contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Symptoms

• Ignoring objects or people on one side of space.
• Difficulty with navigating space and bumping into walls or furniture.
• Inability to dress or groom one side of the body.
• Lack of awareness of deficit.

Diagnosis

• Clinical assessment through behavioral tests like the line bisection test or cancellation tasks.
• Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to identify brain lesions.

Treatment Options

• Rehabilitation therapy focusing on increasing awareness of the neglected side.
• Occupational and physical therapy to improve motor functions and daily living activities.
• Visual scanning training to help patients consciously attend to the neglected side.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• The prognosis can vary; some patients experience significant recovery, while others may have persistent deficits.
• Regular follow-up is essential to monitor recovery progress and adjust therapeutic interventions.

Complications

• Increased risk for accidents or injuries due to neglect.
• Difficulty in performing daily tasks, which can lead to reduced independence.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• While specific preventive measures for neglect aren't well-defined, managing risk factors for strokes (such as controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and lifestyle modifications) can help.
• Cognitive exercises and engaging in activities that stimulate both sides of the brain.

When to Seek Professional Help

• If symptoms of neglect syndrome are observed following a stroke or head injury.
• Difficulty in performing everyday tasks or sudden changes in spatial awareness.

Additional Resources

• American Stroke Association: Stroke Information
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: NINDS

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the correct ICD code (R41.4) is used for neurologic neglect syndrome.
• Be cautious not to confuse with other neurological conditions like visual field deficits.
• Verify documentation specifically mentions neglect behavior and its related context, such as post-stroke.