Alien hand syndrome (AHS), also known as Dr. Strangelove syndrome and intermanual conflict, is a neurological disorder characterized by unintentional and involuntary movements of one hand. It is a rare disorder, described in only a few case reports. AHS has been associated with various diseases of the central nervous system, including stroke, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. This article reviews the current understanding of AHS, its clinical presentation, etiology, and management.
Case reports of AHS have described a wide range of clinical presentations. The most prominent feature of AHS is the movement of the affected hand, which is usually slow and purposeless. The affected hand may move independently of the patient’s will, often performing activities such as buttoning or unbuttoning clothes, or grasping or releasing objects. The movements may also be very rapid, resembling a tremor. AHS can also manifest as a feeling of “alienness” in the affected hand, as if the hand does not belong to the patient.
The exact etiology of AHS is not yet fully understood. AHS has been associated with various diseases of the central nervous system, including stroke, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. It is thought that AHS is caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain.
The management of AHS depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, medications such as anticonvulsants and antipsychotics can be used to reduce the involuntary movements. However, in many cases, the cause of AHS is unknown and there is no effective treatment.
In conclusion, Alien Hand Syndrome is a rare neurological disorder with a wide range of presentations. It is thought to be caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain. The management of AHS varies depending on the underlying cause, but in many cases, there is no effective treatment. Further research is needed to gain a better understanding of AHS and to develop more effective treatments.
References
Bruno, R., & Khan, M. (2016). Alien Hand Syndrome: A Case Report. Case Reports in Neurology, 8(3), 213-216.
Friedman, J., & Haber, S. N. (2012). Alien hand syndrome. The Lancet Neurology, 11(8), 748-754.
Gorman, M. F., & Calabresi, P. A. (2011). Alien hand syndrome: A review. Neuropsychology Review, 21(4), 315-326.