Health Encyclopedia

Basal ganglia dysfunction

Definition

Basal ganglia dysfunction is a problem with the basal ganglia, the deep brain structures that help start and control movement.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Conditions that cause injury to the brain can damage the basal ganglia. Such conditions include:

Drug overdose
Head injury
Infection
Liver disease
Metabolic problems
Multiple sclerosis
Side effects of certain medications
Stroke
Tumors

Many brain disorders are associated with basal ganglia dysfunction. They include:

This list may not be all-inclusive.

Symptoms

Damage to the basal ganglia cells may cause problems with one's ability to control speech, movement, and posture. A person with basal ganglia dysfunction may difficulty starting, stopping, or sustaining movement. Depending on which area is affected, there may also be problems with memory and other thought processes.

In general, symptoms vary and may include:

Movement changes, such as:
- Involuntary movements
- Slowed movements
Increased muscle tone
Muscle spasms and muscle rigidity
Memory loss
Problems finding words
Tremor
Uncontrollable, repeated movements, speech, or cries (tics)
Walking difficulty

Signs and tests

The health care provider will perform a complete physical and neurological exam. Depending on the results, blood tests and imaging studies of the brain may be needed.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause of the disorder.

Expectations (prognosis)

How well a person does depends on the cause of the dysfunction. Some causes are reversible, while others require lifelong treatment.

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you have any abnormal or involuntary movements, unexplainable falls, or if you or others notice that you are shaky or slow.

Review Date:9/22/2008
Reviewed By:Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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