ANOSOGNOSIA - EXAMINING THE DISCONNECTION HYPOTHESIS

Objective-To test the hypothesis that anosognosia for hemiparesis resu lts from intrahemispheric disconnection. Methods-Using right carotid b arbiturate injection as a model for anosognosia for hemiparesis, syste matic attempts were made to modify deficit awareness by providing the left hemisphere with explicit information regarding left upper extremi ty function. Results-Experimental interventions failed to modify defic it awareness in 19 of 32 patients. In those patients who discovered th eir weakness, attempted movement of the weak limb seems more important than explicit observation of the extremity by the left hemisphere. Co nclusions-The results fail to support Geschwind's disconnection hypoth esis for anosognosia for hemiparesis.