Focal neurological deficits

Definition

A focal neurologic deficit is a problem in nerve function that affects either:

• a specific location -- such as the left face, right face, left arm, right arm, left leg, right leg, even just a small area such as just the tongue
• a specific function (for example, speech may be affected, but not the ability to write)

The problem occurs in the brain or nervous system. It may result in a loss of movement or sensation. The type, location, and severity of the change can indicate the area of the brain or nervous system that is affected.

In contrast, a non-focal problem is NOT specific -- such as a general loss of consciousness.

Alternative Names

Considerations

• Speech or language difficulties such as aphasia or dysarthria (impaired speech and language skills), poor enunciation, poor understanding of speech, impaired writing, impaired ability to read or to understand writing, inability to name objects (anomia)
• Vision changes such as reduced vision, decreased visual field, sudden vision loss, double vision (diplopia)
• Neglect or inattention to the surroundings on one side of the body
• Loss of coordination, or loss of fine motor control (ability to perform complex movements)
• Horner's syndrome: one-sided eyelid drooping, lack of sweating on one side of the face, and sinking of one eye into the socket
• Poor gag reflex, swallowing difficulty, and frequent choking

Causes

• Stroke
• Brain tumor
• Cerebral palsy
• Disorders of a single nerve or nerve group (for example, see carpal tunnel syndrome)
• Infection
• Trauma
• Neurodegenerative illness
• Vascular malformation