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Clinical features

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The clinical presentation of lacunar infarcts is variable and depends upon the size of infarct, the site, and the underlying cause.

Miller-Fisher has described several distinct syndromes:

  • pure motor hemiplegia - occurs in 60% of cases; due to a lesion in the posterior limb of the internal capsule

  • pure hemisensory stroke - occurs in 10% of cases; due to lesion in the thalamus

  • dysarthria with facial weakness and contralateral clumsy hand - occurs in 20% of cases; due to lesion in the pons

  • ipsilateral ataxia in the arm or leg, accompanied by leg weakness - rare; due to lesion in the pons

  • severe dysarthria with facial weakness - rare; due to lesion in the anterior limb of the internal capsule

  • dementia, pseudobulbar palsy and shuffling gait - due to multiple lacunar infarcts; may be confused with parkinsonism; more prevalent in patients with uncontrolled hypertension

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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