THE SYMPTOMATOLOGY OF FRONTAL AND TEMPOROSPHENOIDAL TUMORS

Abstract

Because of the paucity of definitely known physiologic centers in the frontal lobes, the diagnosis of tumor formation in these areas has long been difficult. Neurologists have been forced to look for main guidance to the results of pressure exerted backward on either the pyramidal tracts or their cortical origins, and to the presence of change in the mental state as a confirmatory factor. Alterations in mental and emotional condition appear more frequently here than from expanding lesions elsewhere. First is seen a lessening in power of attention; irrelevant replies are made. There develops a trivial and meaningless jocosity. Short periods of excitement occur, with foolish, inept and causeless laughter. There is a tendency to take offense easily, with, on the other hand, effusive apologies over trifles. Frontal epilepsy is frequent, characterized by petit mal and sudden attacks of mental confusion. With increase in pressure, hebetude replaces these earlier manifestations;