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Precipitating Activities and Other Observations

C. Miller Fisher, MD

Arch Neurol. 1982;39(10):605-608.

Abstract
• Impressed with the number of patients whose spells of transient global amnesia were triggered by special circumstances, I have reviewed 78 such cases. Precipitating events were reported in 26 of 85 spells: eight occurred during highly emotional experiences; seven, during sexual intercourse; six, while the patient was in pain; two, while a trigeminal ganglion was being stimulated; and three, during a dip in the cold Atlantic Ocean. These observations suggest an electrophysiologic disturbance. The characteristics of the amnesia, the organization of memory, and behavior during spells were also considered.

Author Affiliations
From the Neurology Service, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston.

Footnotes
Accepted for publication April 19, 1982.

Reprint requests to Neurology Service, Massachusetts General Hospital, Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114 (Dr Fisher).

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