pseudobulbar palsy
An upper motor neuron syndrome affecting speech, swallowing, and facial movements due to bilateral corticobulbar tract damage.
Full Definition
Pseudobulbar palsy results from bilateral upper motor neuron lesions affecting corticobulbar pathways that control cranial nerve nuclei. Clinical features include dysarthria, dysphagia, emotional lability (pseudobulbar affect), and a small, spastic tongue with hyperactive jaw jerk reflex. Common causes include multiple strokes, motor neuron disease, multiple sclerosis, and progressive supranuclear palsy. Unlike true bulbar palsy, muscle atrophy and fasciculations are absent, and reflexes are hyperactive rather than diminished.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from true bulbar palsy, which involves lower motor neuron pathology with fasciculations.
In Context
- "The patient developed pseudobulbar palsy following bilateral middle cerebral artery strokes." — Neurological examination
- "Pseudobulbar affect with inappropriate laughing and crying accompanied the speech difficulties." — Behavioral neurology assessment