Annals of neurology
-
Annals of neurology · Jan 2011
ReviewPain and death: neurodegenerative disease mechanisms in the nociceptor.
Chronic peripheral neuropathic pain is the result of abnormal activity in sensory nerves. It is well recognized that this sensory nerve dysfunction can be caused by traumatic, toxic, or metabolic insult to the nerve. In addition, there is growing recognition that neuropathic pain is a frequent manifestation of neurodegenerative diseases. ⋯ This approach identifies specific mitochondrial and cytoskeletal mechanisms, previously implicated in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases in the central nervous system, that might contribute to neuropathic dysfunction in peripheral sensory nerve fibers. Investigations in preclinical models of common peripheral neuropathic pain conditions have supported the idea that a subset of these cellular mechanisms of neurodegeneration can produce painful hyperactivity in primary afferent nociceptors. Importantly, this emerging concept of neurodegenerative disease mechanisms in the primary afferent nociceptor identifies novel molecular targets for the treatment neuropathic pain.
-
Annals of neurology · Sep 2010
ReviewNeurological disorders in complex humanitarian emergencies and natural disasters.
Complex humanitarian emergencies include the relatively acute, severe, and overwhelming health consequences of armed conflict, food scarcity, mass displacement, and political strife. Neurological manifestations of complex humanitarian emergencies are important and underappreciated consequences of emergencies in populations worldwide. This review critically assesses the existing knowledge of the range of neurological disorders that accompany complex humanitarian emergencies and natural disasters in both the acute phase of crisis and the "long shadow" that follows.
-
Annals of neurology · Aug 2010
Review Case ReportsA review of paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity after acquired brain injury.
Severe excessive autonomic overactivity occurs in a subgroup of people surviving acquired brain injury, the majority of whom show paroxysmal sympathetic and motor overactivity. Delayed recognition of paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH) after brain injury may increase morbidity and long-term disability. Despite its significant clinical impact, the scientific literature on this syndrome is confusing; there is no consensus on nomenclature, etiological information for diagnoses preceding the condition is poorly understood, and the evidence base underpinning our knowledge of the pathophysiology and management strategies is largely anecdotal. ⋯ The findings of this review suggest that PSH be adopted as a more clinically relevant and appropriate term. The review highlights major problems regarding conceptual definitions, diagnostic criteria, and nomenclature. Consensus on these issues is recommended as an essential basis for further research in the area.
-
Envisioning the future of stroke appears daunting considering the milestones already achieved in stroke imaging. A historical perspective on the developments in stroke care provides a striking narrative of how imaging has transformed diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis of cerebrovascular disorders. Multimodal imaging techniques such as CT and MRI, incorporating parenchymal depictions, illustration of the vasculature, and perfusion data, can provide a wealth of information regarding ischemic pathophysiology. ⋯ In this first article on ischemia, the focus is on the most recent imaging advances and exploring aspects of cerebral ischemia where imaging may yield additional therapeutic strategies. A subsequent article will review recent and anticipated imaging advances in hemorrhage. These thematic overviews underscore that imaging will undoubtedly continue to dramatically shape the future of stroke.
-
Cerebral developmental venous anomalies are the most frequently encountered cerebral vascular malformation, and as such, are frequently reported as fortuitous findings in computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies. Developmental venous anomalies (DVAs) are generally considered extreme anatomical variations of the cerebral vasculature, and follow a benign clinical course in the vast majority of cases. Here we review current concepts on DVAs with the aim of helping clinicians understand this complex entity. ⋯ Clinical presentation, association with other vascular malformations and cerebral parenchymal abnormalities, and possible physiopathological processes leading to associated imaging or clinical findings are discussed. Atypical forms of DVAs are also reviewed and their clinical significance discussed. Finally, recommendations as to how to manage asymptomatic or symptomatic patients with a DVA are advanced.