anosognosia
Pronunciation: an-oh-sog-NO-zhuh
Lack of awareness or denial of neurological deficits, particularly common after right hemisphere stroke.
Full Definition
Anosognosia is a neuropsychiatric condition characterized by a patient's lack of awareness or outright denial of their neurological impairments. Most commonly seen following right hemisphere stroke, patients may deny hemiplegia, neglect, or other obvious deficits. The condition can also occur with other neurological conditions including dementia, where patients may be unaware of their cognitive decline. Anosognosia is thought to result from disconnection between brain regions responsible for self-monitoring and those that update self-representation. This lack of insight significantly impacts rehabilitation compliance and safety awareness.
Usage
Usage note: Note: This appears to be a duplicate of an existing term - please verify if this should be included.
In Context
- "The patient's anosognosia prevented recognition of left-sided weakness." — Stroke rehabilitation assessment
- "Anosognosia for memory deficits complicated dementia care planning." — Cognitive neurology consultation