Bálint syndrome
Pronunciation: BAH-lint
A rare neuropsychological disorder affecting visual-spatial processing, characterized by simultanagnosia, optic ataxia, and oculomotor apraxia.
Full Definition
Bálint syndrome is a complex neuropsychological condition resulting from bilateral damage to the parieto-occipital cortex. The syndrome manifests as three core deficits: simultanagnosia (inability to perceive multiple objects simultaneously), optic ataxia (difficulty reaching for visually guided targets), and oculomotor apraxia (impaired voluntary eye movements). Patients retain basic visual acuity but struggle with integrated visual-spatial tasks. This condition is most commonly seen following bilateral posterior cerebral artery strokes or in advanced Alzheimer's disease.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize the 'B' as it is named after Hungarian neurologist Rudolf Bálint.
In Context
- "The patient exhibited classic Bálint syndrome following bilateral parieto-occipital infarction." — Neurological assessment report
- "Occupational therapy focused on compensatory strategies for the visual-spatial deficits associated with Bálint syndrome." — Rehabilitation plan