NeglectSyndrom

NeglectSyndrom, also called hemispatial neglect, is a neuropsychological condition that arises after brain injury, most commonly a right hemispheric stroke. It is characterized by impaired awareness of stimuli on the side opposite the lesion, despite intact sensory and motor function.

NeglectSyndrom is not a primary sensory deficit but an attentional disorder. It may be spatial, affecting cues in extrapersonal or peripersonal space, or personal, in relation to the patient’s own body. It can be motor or cognitive in nature and may involve other modalities such as visual, auditory, or tactile stimuli. Representational neglect can affect imagined spaces.

Causes and typical brain regions: the condition most often results from a stroke in the right parietal cortex or temporoparietal junction, with possible involvement of frontal networks or subcortical pathways. Left-hemisphere lesions can also cause neglect, though right-sided neglect is more common and often more severe.

Diagnosis relies on clinical observation and neuropsychological tests such as line bisection, cancellation tasks (for example Bells test), and figure copying. Extinction and procedures across sensory modalities help distinguish neglect from primary sensory loss. Neuroimaging localizes the lesion and assesses extent.

Management is multidisciplinary and emphasizes training to orient attention toward the neglected side. Interventions include visual scanning training, cueing strategies, prism adaptation, limb activation, and occupational therapy. Recovery is variable; many patients improve in weeks to months, but persistent neglect can hinder daily functioning.