Differential diagnosis of the main transient global amnesias atypical case report

Objective: Memory is one of man's most important cognitive functions. Various diseases can affect memory function and yield specific memory impairments. One of these conditions, transient global amnesia, is a peculiar type of memory loss with hallmark characteristics. However, the pathophysiological explanation for transient global amnesia remains controversial Methods: Starting with the most significant data from the literature, we describe the most important features needed for diagnosing the three main clinical conditions that could mimic transient global amnesia. Then, we describe a retrospective series of cases of transient global amnesia. Results: Among the cases observed, we focus on a case of transient global amnesia with features that distinguish it from the cases reported in the literature. Conclusion: This paper describes the key features of transient global amnesia, discusses the main differential diagnoses from similar conditions and proposes a pathogenetic interpretation consistent with all of the hallmarks of the disorder (amnesia duration, lack of specific neuroradiological and electroencephalographic correlates or impaired sensitivity or motility, reversibility and benign prognosis of the amnesic episodes, and rare recurrence.