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Transient Global Amnesia

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Description: Transient global amnesia (TGA) is a sudden, temporary episode of memory loss that can't be attributed to a more common neurological condition, during which the person is unable to form new memories and for a short period cannot recall the past.
Type: Transient global amnesia (TGA) is a neurological condition characterized by sudden, temporary episodes of short-term memory loss without any other neurological impairments. TGA is not typically linked to genetic transmission and is generally considered to be caused by non-genetic factors such as physical or emotional stress.
Signs And Symptoms: A person having an attack of TGA has almost no capacity to establish new memories, but generally appears otherwise mentally alert and lucid, possessing full knowledge of self-identity and identity of close family, and maintaining intact perceptual skills and a wide repertoire of complex learned behavior. The individual simply cannot recall anything that happened outside the last few minutes, while memory for more temporally distant events may or may not be largely intact. The degree of amnesia is profound, and, in the interval during which the individual is aware of his or her condition, is often accompanied by anxiety.
The diagnostic criteria for TGA, as defined for purposes of clinical research, include:
The attack was witnessed by a capable observer and reported as being a definite loss of recent memory (anterograde amnesia).
There was an absence of clouding of consciousness or other cognitive impairment other than amnesia.
There were no focal neurological signs or deficits during or after the attack.
There were no features of epilepsy, or active epilepsy in the past two years, and the patient did not have any recent head injury.
The attack resolved within 24 hours.
Prognosis: The prognosis of "pure" TGA is very good, as by definition, symptoms resolve within 24 hours. It does not affect mortality or morbidity There is no treatment specific to TGA. "The most important part of management after diagnosis is looking after the psychological needs of the patient and his or her relatives. Seeing a once competent and healthy partner, sibling or parent become incapable of remembering what was said only a minute ago is very distressing, and hence it is often the relatives who will require reassurance."It is unclear if episodes of TGA increase the future risk of a stroke. Some population based studies show no increased risk of a stroke after an episode of TGA, while other population based studies show a slightly increased risk.Recurrence rates of TGA are variously reported, with one systematic calculation suggesting the rate is under 6% per year. Fifteen percent of people who have had an episode of TGA have multiple episodes, with an average interval of 2 years between episodes.TGA may have multiple etiologies and prognoses. Atypical presentations may masquerade as epilepsy and be more properly considered TEA. In addition to such probable TEA cases, some people experiencing amnestic events diverging from the diagnostic criteria articulated above may have a less benign prognosis than those with "pure" TGA.Recently, moreover, both imaging and neurocognitive testing studies question whether TGA is as benign as has been thought. MRI scans of the brain in one study showed that among people who had experienced TGA, all had cavities in the hippocampus, and these cavities were far more numerous, larger, and more suggestive of pathological damage than in either healthy controls or a large control group of people with tumor or stroke. Verbal and cognitive impairments have been observed days after TGA attacks, of such severity that the researchers estimated the effects would be unlikely to resolve within a short time frame. A large neurocognitive study of patients more than a year after their attack has shown persistent effects consistent with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI-a) in a third of the people who had experienced TGA. In another study, "selective cognitive dysfunctions after the clinical recovery" were observed, suggesting a prefrontal impairment. These dysfunctions may not be in memory per se but in retrieval, in which speed of access is part of the problem among people who have had TGA and experience ongoing memory problems.
Onset: Transient global amnesia (TGA) typically has a sudden onset. Individuals experiencing TGA will suddenly find themselves unable to form new memories and may have difficulty recalling recent events. This memory impairment usually lasts for several hours and then gradually resolves. No other significant neurological symptoms, like weakness or changes in consciousness, are typically present during an episode of TGA.
Prevalence: The prevalence of transient global amnesia (TGA) is estimated to be approximately 5 to 10 cases per 100,000 people per year. While TGA is relatively rare, it primarily affects individuals aged 50 to 70 years.
Epidemiology: The estimated annual incidence of TGA varies from a minimum of 2.9 cases per 100,000 population (in Spain) and 5.2 per 100,000 (in the US), but among people aged over 50, the rate of TGA incidence is reported to range from approximately 23 per 100,000 (in a US population) to 32 per 100,000 (in a population in Scandinavia).TGA is most common in people between age 56 and 75, with the average age of a person experiencing TGA being approximately 62.
Intractability: Transient global amnesia (TGA) is not typically considered intractable. It is a sudden, temporary episode of memory loss that cannot be attributed to more common neurological conditions like epilepsy or stroke. The episodes usually last for a few hours, and full recovery of memory is expected without recurrence. Most people experience only one episode in their lifetime, and there typically are no lasting effects or need for ongoing treatment.
Disease Severity: Transient global amnesia (TGA) is typically a benign condition. It involves a sudden, temporary episode of memory loss that cannot be attributed to a more common neurological condition, such as epilepsy or stroke. The primary symptom is an inability to form new memories and recall recent events. Episodes are generally short-lived, lasting a few hours, and full recovery is expected with no lasting effects. It is important, however, to rule out other potential causes of memory loss, so medical evaluation is recommended if an episode occurs.
Healthcare Professionals: Disease Ontology ID - DOID:13027
Pathophysiology: Transient global amnesia (TGA) is characterized by sudden, temporary episodes of memory loss and confusion without other neurological deficits. The exact pathophysiology remains unclear, but several theories exist:

1. **Vascular Hypothesis**: Suggests transient ischemia (restricted blood flow) in the hippocampus or thalamus, regions crucial for memory processing.
2. **Migraine-Related Hypothesis**: Proposes that TGA may share mechanisms with migraines, potentially involving cortical spreading depression or vascular changes.
3. **Venous Congestion Hypothesis**: Postulates that increased venous pressure, possibly due to physical strain or Valsalva-like maneuvers, leads to temporary disruption of normal brain function, particularly in memory-related areas.
4. **Seizure Activity**: Some believe that a non-convulsive, focal seizure-like activity could temporarily impair memory regions without causing traditional seizure symptoms.

Despite these theories, the precise cause remains elusive, and multiple factors, including stress or emotional distress, might trigger episodes in susceptible individuals.
Carrier Status: Transient global amnesia does not have a carrier status as it is not a hereditary or genetic condition. It is characterized by a sudden, temporary episode of memory loss that can't be attributed to a more common neurological condition, such as epilepsy or stroke.
Mechanism: Transient global amnesia (TGA) is characterized by the sudden onset of temporary memory loss, primarily affecting short-term memory while sparing other cognitive functions. The exact mechanism of TGA is not fully understood, but several theories have been proposed:

**Mechanisms:**
1. **Vascular Causes:** Episodes may be triggered by venous congestion and subsequent transient ischemia in the hippocampus, potentially due to activities that increase venous pressure, such as physical exertion or stress.
2. **Migrant Variant:** Some researchers suggest that TGA may have a relation to migraine mechanisms, given the overlap in some clinical features.
3. **Psychological Stress:** Intense emotional stress may also trigger TGA, although the exact physiological link remains unclear.

**Molecular Mechanisms:**
1. **Hippocampal Involvement:** The hippocampus is critical for forming new memories. Changes in blood flow or microembolism in this region may interfere with its function.
2. **Neuronal Ion Channel Dysfunction:** Episodes may involve transient dysfunction of neuronal ion channels, affecting neuronal excitability and communication.
3. **Neurotransmitter Imbalance:** Fluctuations in neurotransmitter levels, particularly those involved in memory and stress responses (e.g., glutamate, GABA), might contribute to the temporary loss of synaptic function.

Further research is ongoing to elucidate the precise molecular underpinnings of TGA.
Treatment: Transient global amnesia (TGA) typically resolves on its own within 24 hours and does not have a specific treatment. The focus is instead on supportive care and ensuring patient safety. It is important to rule out other potential causes of memory loss, such as stroke or seizures, through appropriate medical evaluation.
Compassionate Use Treatment: Transient global amnesia (TGA) is characterized by the sudden onset of memory loss and confusion that typically lasts for several hours. It usually resolves on its own without specific treatment. However, there is currently no established compassionate use treatment, off-label, or experimental treatments specifically for TGA. Management mainly focuses on supportive care and ruling out other serious conditions, such as stroke or epilepsy. If symptoms persist or are recurrent, a thorough medical evaluation is essential to investigate underlying causes or contributing factors.
Lifestyle Recommendations: Lifestyle recommendations for transient global amnesia include:

1. **Stress Management:** Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga.
2. **Regular Exercise:** Engage in regular physical activity to improve overall brain health.
3. **Healthy Diet:** Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
4. **Hydration:** Ensure adequate hydration throughout the day.
5. **Sleep:** Prioritize good sleep hygiene to ensure quality rest.
6. **Avoid Triggers:** Identify and avoid potential triggers, such as intense physical activity or extreme emotional stress.
7. **Medical Check-ups:** Regularly consult with healthcare providers to monitor overall health and manage any underlying conditions.

If you experience symptoms or have concerns, it is important to seek medical advice.
Medication: There is no specific medication for transient global amnesia (TGA) as the condition typically resolves on its own within 24 hours. Management primarily involves supportive care and reassurance to the patient and family. However, underlying conditions or contributing factors, such as migraines or stress, may be addressed with appropriate treatments.
Repurposable Drugs: Transient global amnesia (TGA) currently has no specific medications approved for its treatment or prevention. Consequently, there are no well-established repurposable drugs for this condition. TGA is typically self-limiting, and patients often recover fully without specific medical intervention. Further research might provide insights into potential repurposable drugs in the future.
Metabolites: Transient global amnesia (TGA) is characterized by a sudden, temporary episode of memory loss that can't be attributed to a more common neurological condition, such as epilepsy or stroke. The exact cause remains unclear, but several factors have been proposed, including issues with blood flow or transient disruptions in brain function.

Metabolites: Research suggests that metabolic factors might play a role in TGA, including changes in lactate levels and disruptions to oxidative metabolism. However, specific metabolites directly linked to TGA have not been conclusively identified.

Nan (Not Applicable/Not Available): There is no specific information currently available pointing to the exact involvement of nanotechnology or nanoparticles in the diagnosis, treatment, or understanding of transient global amnesia. Research in this area is ongoing, and advancements may emerge in the future.
Nutraceuticals: Currently, there is no specific nutraceutical treatment for transient global amnesia (TGA). TGA is a temporary condition characterized by sudden onset of short-term memory loss and confusion, generally resolving within 24 hours. Management focuses on reassurance and symptomatic care since the condition is self-limiting. Nutraceuticals, which are products derived from food sources with extra health benefits, have not been validated in clinical studies as effective treatments for TGA.
Peptides: Transient Global Amnesia (TGA) is characterized by a sudden, temporary episode of memory loss. There is limited specific information linking peptides to TGA. Research on neuropathological mechanisms sometimes explores peptides as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets, but no definitive connections have been established in the context of TGA. As for "nan," if this refers to nanotechnology or nanoparticles, there is no direct evidence linking these to TGA treatment or diagnosis at this time. Transient Global Amnesia generally resolves on its own without specific medical intervention.