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Advanced Technical IVT

Contralateral Neglect

Failure to attend to stimuli on the side of space opposite to a brain lesion, typically requiring specialized perceptual and attention training interventions.

Full Definition

Contralateral neglect is a neurological condition characterized by the failure to attend to, respond to, or report stimuli presented on the side of space opposite to a brain lesion, most commonly following right hemisphere stroke. This condition extends beyond simple sensory loss and involves complex deficits in spatial attention, awareness, and intention. In neurorehabilitation, contralateral neglect significantly impacts functional independence and safety, requiring specialized interventions such as scanning training, prism adaptation, and environmental modifications.

Usage

Usage note: Specify the side of neglect (e.g., left contralateral neglect) in clinical documentation. Distinguish from sensory deficits.

In Context

  • "The patient demonstrated severe contralateral neglect, consistently missing items on the left side during visual scanning tasks." — Occupational therapy evaluation
  • "Scanning training and limb activation techniques were implemented to address the patient's contralateral neglect." — Neurorehabilitation treatment plan

Also known as

unilateral neglect spatial neglect

Contrasted with

intact spatial attention bilateral awareness

Don't confuse with

hemianopia sensory loss

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