Topographical Disorientation: Etiology, Diagnosis, and Management
Abstract
This article provides an overview of topographical disorientation and its etiology, diagnosis, and management. Topographical disorientation is a disorder of orientation characterized by an inability to recognize familiar environments. It is often caused by brain damage, dementia, and other neurological disorders. Diagnosis of topographical disorientation is based on a patient’s history, physical exam, and psychological tests. Treatment options include cognitive and behavioral therapies, medications, and environmental modifications.
Keywords: topographical disorientation, etiology, diagnosis, management
Introduction
Topographical disorientation is a neurological disorder characterized by an inability to recognize familiar environments. It is often seen in patients with brain damage, dementia, stroke, and other neurological diseases. In this article, we review the etiology, diagnosis, and management of topographical disorientation.
Etiology
The etiology of topographical disorientation is often related to a brain injury or neurological disorder. Traumatic brain injury, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and other dementias are the most common causes of topographical disorientation. Other causes include epilepsy, head trauma, developmental disabilities, and depression.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of topographical disorientation is based on a patient’s history, physical exam, and psychological tests. Neurological exams, imaging studies, and laboratory tests may be performed to rule out other causes of disorientation.
Management
The treatment of topographical disorientation is based on the underlying cause. Cognitive and behavioral therapies may be used to retrain the brain to recognize environments. Medications may be used to manage symptoms or underlying conditions. Environmental modifications, such as using cues, may also help patients navigate unfamiliar environments.
Conclusion
Topographical disorientation is a disorder of orientation characterized by an inability to recognize familiar environments. It is often caused by brain damage, dementia, and other neurological disorders. Diagnosis of topographical disorientation is based on a patient’s history, physical exam, and psychological tests. Treatment options include cognitive and behavioral therapies, medications, and environmental modifications.
References
Adams, J.A., & Victor, M. (2014). Principles of neurology (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill.
Guevara, M.A., & Caveney, A.F. (2012). Topographical disorientation: An overview. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 8, 807–814. doi: 10.2147/NDT.S25136
Mak, E., & Man, P. (2015). Topographical disorientation: Diagnosis and management. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 10, 719–726. doi: 10.2147/CIA.S71575