Symptom Lateralization

The lateralization symptom is one of the most important signs that allows you to determine the location and nature of the pathological focus in the brain.

What is a symptom of lateralization? The symptom of lateralization is a change in the sensitivity and function of the motor system on the side opposite the affected area

The lateralization symptom is an important tool for determining the location of brain damage. By the symptoms of lateration, one can distinguish the pathology of the brain substance from problems in the meninges. This method can help significantly facilitate the diagnosis of certain diseases.

The concept of “symptom of lateralization” was introduced into practice by a doctor and neurosurgeon from Germany, Alexander Kussmaul. In the middle of the 20th century, he used the lateralization method in the surgical treatment of epilepsy, the main symptom indicating damage to brain structures (often left). For certain types of attacks, the doctor asked the patient to raise his right or left arm, and specified which leg was in step and which was lagging behind. The cause of the seizure and the location of the source of the disease can be determined precisely on this basis.

Using the lateration method, it is possible to localize a pathological focus in the brain or establish the cause of a patient’s lack of coordination of movements.