Brain as an organ of mind / by H. Charlton Bastian.

  • Henry Charlton Bastian
Date:
1880
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Brain as an organ of mind / by H. Charlton Bastian. Source: Wellcome Collection.

    673/762 page 655
    of comprehending signs, and an inability to Will and execute even the simplest motor acts. M. C—, set. 24, had suffered much mental distress owing to the recent death of one of her children. On October 3rd she had a fit for the first time, whilst in the street, but was able to walk home, and during the two days which inteiwened before her admission into University College Hospital she had twelve other epileptiform attacks. Soon after her admission, she had another series of convulsions, affecting both sides of the body, though principally the right. During the intervals between the separate attacks, it was found that her face was partially paralysed on the right side, the right arm was completely paralysed, and the leg to a less extent. She had six series of these convulsive attacks in the three days following her admission, and during this time remained in a dull, lethargic state. On October 13th she gradually began to regain a certain amount of intelligence in look and manner. On the 19th, her attention could be at once arrested; she made decided efforts to speak after questions, and was able to say ‘ yes ’ and ‘ no ’ indistinctly, though not appropriately. When told to show her tongue she merely opened her mouth, not attempting to protrude the organ. Was able to swallow without difficulty, and took food eagerly. On the 26th, seemed still more intelligent. Did not protrude the tongue when told, but opened her mouth and took hold of the tip with her fingers, with the view of bringing it forwards. Although unable to move it by an unaided volitional stimulus, on a sweet lozenge being applied to her lips she imme- diately put out her tongue with great readiness, and whilst eating it laughed and seemed much pleased. On the 28th, looked much brighter, and took notice of what passed around her. Made signs when she wished to attract the attention of the nurse. When asked if she had pain in the head, she nodded assent; but did not move her hand when told to place it upon the painful part, or else moved it in quite a different direction. Paralysis of limbs and face continued much the same. About ten days afterwardsi examined her again carefully. Shehad continued to improve in the meantime, and could now say ‘Nurse’ distinctly, in addition to ‘ Yes ’ and ‘ No.’ She could not repeat the simplest vowel sounds, neither could she read single words in large print, either aloud or to herself, so as to comprehend them.
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