anosognosia
Pronunciation: an-oh-sog-NOH-zee-ah
A neurological condition where patients are unaware of their own neurological deficits or disabilities following brain injury.
Full Definition
Anosognosia is a neurological syndrome characterized by a patient's lack of awareness or denial of their own neurological impairment, commonly seen after stroke or brain injury. This condition presents significant challenges in rehabilitation as patients may refuse treatment or engage in unsafe behaviors due to their unawareness of deficits. The term is frequently encountered in neurological assessments and rehabilitation planning documents. Editors should note that this differs from simple denial, as it represents a genuine neurological inability to recognize impairment. The condition can affect various domains including motor function, vision, or cognitive abilities.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with psychological denial; anosognosia is a neurological phenomenon with identifiable brain correlates.
In Context
- "The patient exhibited anosognosia following left hemisphere stroke, repeatedly attempting to use her paralyzed right arm." — Neurological assessment report
- "Rehabilitation progress was hindered by the patient's anosognosia regarding his visual field defects." — Occupational therapy notes