Acquired stuttering after pallidal deep brain stimulation for dystonia

J Neural Transm (Vienna). 2009 Feb;116(2):167-9. doi: 10.1007/s00702-008-0173-x. Epub 2009 Jan 10.

Abstract

We report two patients, in whom stuttering evolved as an adverse effect of pallidal deep brain stimulation for treating dystonia. Speech dysfluency was observed under conditions that optimally suppressed dystonic symptoms without inducing other extrinsic stimulation effects. This emphasizes a role of the sensorimotor part of the internal globus pallidus in regulating speech fluency.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Deep Brain Stimulation / adverse effects*
  • Dystonia / therapy*
  • Globus Pallidus*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Stuttering / etiology*