alien hand syndrome
Neurological disorder where one hand performs purposeful movements without conscious control or intention by the patient.
Full Definition
Alien hand syndrome is a rare neurological phenomenon characterized by involuntary, purposeful movements of one hand that occur without the patient's conscious intention or control. The affected hand may perform complex, goal-directed actions such as grasping objects, undressing, or interfering with the other hand's activities, while the patient feels no sense of ownership or control over these movements. This condition typically results from lesions involving the corpus callosum, supplementary motor area, or frontal medial cortex. The syndrome is most commonly observed following callosotomy procedures, stroke, or degenerative conditions affecting interhemispheric connections.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from simple involuntary movements; alien hand performs complex, purposeful actions.
In Context
- "Following corpus callosotomy, the patient developed alien hand syndrome with the left hand repeatedly undoing actions performed by the right hand." — Post-surgical assessment
- "The alien hand syndrome manifested as involuntary grasping and manipulation of objects without conscious awareness." — Neurological examination