acalculia
Pronunciation: ah-kal-KU-lee-ah
Acquired inability to perform mathematical calculations despite previous competency.
Full Definition
Acalculia is a neurological condition characterized by the acquired loss or impairment of mathematical and calculation abilities following brain injury, despite previously normal arithmetic skills. This disorder typically results from lesions in the left parietal lobe, particularly the angular gyrus, or from broader language-related brain damage. Acalculia can manifest as primary acalculia (isolated calculation deficits) or secondary acalculia (calculation problems arising from other cognitive impairments such as aphasia, alexia, or spatial neglect). Patients may struggle with basic arithmetic operations, number reading and writing, or understanding mathematical concepts. Assessment must distinguish between calculation deficits and other cognitive impairments that might interfere with mathematical performance, such as attention, memory, or executive dysfunction.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from developmental dyscalculia. Specify primary versus secondary when possible.
In Context
- "Post-stroke acalculia prevented the accountant from returning to work despite preserved language and memory." — Neuropsychological evaluation
- "The assessment revealed primary acalculia with intact reading and writing abilities in other contexts." — Cognitive rehabilitation referral