Abstract
Background: Transient global amnesia is characterized by the sudden development of
dense anterograde amnesia, without alteration in level of consciousness and in the
absence of focal neurologic deficits or seizure activity. Various precipitating causes
have been reported in the medical literature. Objective: To present a literature-guided
approach to the diagnosis and management of transient global amnesia in the Emergency
Department (ED). Case Report: We report the case of a 54-year-old woman who presented
to the ED with an episode of acute memory loss. Conclusions: Although rare, transient
global amnesia may present in a dramatic fashion. The occurrence of a distinct precipitating
event and repetitive questioning seem to be key features in making the diagnosis.
Important differential considerations include transient ischemic attack, seizure,
and subarachnoid hemorrhage. Brain imaging and specialty consultation are reserved
primarily for patients with unclear circumstances, altered level of consciousness,
focal neurologic findings, and persistent (or very brief) amnestic symptoms. Brain
imaging may, however, relieve anxiety about more dangerous causes of the event.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: October 02, 2008
Accepted:
February 27,
2008
Received in revised form:
February 19,
2008
Received:
January 22,
2008
Identification
Copyright
© 2011 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
