anosognosia
Pronunciation: ah-noh-sog-NOH-see-ah
Denial or lack of awareness of neurological deficits, typically following right hemisphere stroke.
Full Definition
Anosognosia is a neuropsychological condition where patients remain unaware of or deny obvious neurological impairments, most commonly left-sided weakness or visual field defects. This phenomenon typically occurs with right parietal lobe lesions and represents a genuine lack of awareness rather than psychological denial. The condition significantly impacts rehabilitation efforts and discharge planning. Clinical documentation should specify the type of deficit being denied and distinguish between explicit denial and implicit unawareness through behavioral observation.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify which deficit the patient is unaware of; distinguish from anosodiaphoria (indifference to deficits).
In Context
- "The patient displayed anosognosia for left hemiplegia, insisting she could drive home." — Acute stroke assessment
- "Anosognosia complicated rehabilitation planning due to poor safety awareness." — Rehabilitation medicine consultation