Open AccessTransient global amnesia in the district general hospital
Author(s) -
Larner A. J.
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
international journal of clinical practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.756
H-Index - 98
eISSN - 1742-1241
pISSN - 1368-5031
DOI - 10.1111/j.1742-1241.2006.00897.x
Subject(s) - medicine , transient global amnesia , general hospital , medical diagnosis , amnesia , pediatrics , outpatient clinic , epilepsy , stroke (engine) , emergency medicine , psychiatry , pathology , mechanical engineering , engineering
Summary Cases of transient global amnesia (TGA) seen by one consultant neurologist over a 4‐year period (2002–2005 inclusive) were identified. Of 10 possible cases, eight fulfilled suggested diagnostic criteria. Five cases were seen as ward consultations, three in outpatient clinics; seven were seen in district general hospitals. Six of the eight cases had already been seen by hospital physicians, whose working diagnoses included stroke/TIA and epilepsy. In some cases, this had resulted in inappropriate investigation, treatment and advice. Although rare, TGA is a diagnosis both hospital physicians and general practitioners need to be aware of in order to avoid potential pitfalls. The critical importance of collateral history in reaching the diagnosis is emphasised.