Upper motor neuron lesion
Upper Motor Neuron Lesion (Pyramidal Insufficiency)[edit | edit source]
Overview[edit | edit source]
Upper motor neuron (UMN) lesion, also known as pyramidal insufficiency, refers to damage in the neural pathway above the anterior horn cell of the spinal cord or motor nuclei of the cranial nerves. This contrasts with lower motor neuron (LMN) lesions, which affect nerve fibers traveling from the anterior horn of the spinal cord or cranial motor nuclei to the muscles.
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Causes[edit | edit source]
UMN lesions can occur due to a variety of conditions including:
- Stroke
- Multiple sclerosis
- Traumatic brain injury
- Cerebral palsy
- Multiple system atrophy
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Common symptoms of UMN lesions include:
- Muscle weakness
- Spasticity (increased muscle tone)
- Hyperreflexia (exaggerated reflexes)
- Babinski sign (upward response of the big toe when the sole of the foot is stimulated)
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of UMN lesions involves:
- Neurological examination
- Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scan
- Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (in some cases)
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and may include:
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Medications to reduce muscle spasticity
- Supportive care for associated conditions
UMN vs LMN Lesions[edit | edit source]
Differences between UMN and LMN lesions:
- UMN Lesions: Spasticity, hyperreflexia, positive Babinski sign.
- LMN Lesions: Muscle atrophy, fasciculations, decreased muscle tone and reflexes.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for UMN lesions varies depending on the underlying cause and the extent of neurological involvement.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
The prevalence of UMN lesions is closely tied to the conditions causing them, such as stroke or multiple sclerosis.
References[edit | edit source]
- National Center for Biotechnology Information - Upper Motor Neuron Lesion
- Mayo Clinic - Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
- American Stroke Association - Types of Stroke
External Links[edit | edit source]
| Upper motor neuron lesion Resources | |
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