upper motor neuron weakness W4

Question 1

motor pathway - upper motor neuron?

Answer 1

cortex
subcortical tracts
internal capsule
brainstem
spinal cord
anterior horns

Question 2

where do upper motor neurons decussate?

Answer 2

brainstem - pyramids

Question 3

motor pathway of lower motor neuron?

Answer 3

ventral roots
plexi
peripheral nerve
neuromuscular junction
muscle

Question 4

features of pyramidal weakness?

Answer 4

upper limb - extensors weaker than flexors
lower limb - flexors weaker than extensors

Question 5

4 types of patterns of weakness?

Answer 5

monoparesis/-plegia (single limb)
paraparesis/-plegia (both legs)
tetraparesis/-plegia (all 4 limbs)
hemiparesis/-plegia (weakness affecting arm and leg on one side)

Question 6

are seizures present in subcortical pathology?

Answer 6

no!

Question 7

name for white matter tracts descending from cortex to internal capsule

Answer 7

corona radiata

Question 8

features of lesions in corona radiata and capsule

Answer 8

affects broad region of body

Question 9

brainstem lesions features

Answer 9

crossed signs:
-ipsilateral cranial nerve lesion
-contralateral signs in limbs
focal

Question 10

example of focal brainstem lesions

Answer 10

vascular lesions
demyelinating plaques

Question 11

cervical cord lesion - lesions causing tetraparesis-plegia?

Answer 11

bilateral lesions

Question 12

-paresis and -plegia meaning?

Answer 12

-paresis = partial
-plegia = full

Question 13

features of cervical cord lesions

Answer 13

spasticity and brisk reflexes
sensory loss (with ‘level’ - dermatomal cut off)
problems with bladder an bowel function
upgoing plantars

Question 14

thoracic cord lesion features?

Answer 14

lower limb weakness (doesnt affect upper limb)
spastic tone
pyramidal weakness
brisk reflexes
upgoing plantars
sensory disturbance
sphincter disturbance