Right versus left temporal lobe semiology in dementia: Lessons from two cases with focal frontotemporal dementia syndromes

J Neuropsychol. 2024 Sep;18(3):459-467. doi: 10.1111/jnp.12373. Epub 2024 May 9.

Abstract

Focal atrophy of the left anterior temporal lobe has been associated with the semantic type of primary progressive aphasia evolving to semantic dementia. In contrast, focal atrophy of the right temporal lobe has more recently been described as a controverse entity reported as the right temporal variant of FTD. We describe two cases of FTD dementia syndromes: in Case 1, atrophy of the right temporal lobe led to significant behavioural impairment and difficulties in recognizing known people. In Case 2, atrophy of the left temporal lobe was associated with severe aggressive, ritualistic behaviour and aphasia.

Keywords: anterior temporal lobe; frontotemporal dementia; semantic dementia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Atrophy
  • Female
  • Frontotemporal Dementia* / complications
  • Frontotemporal Dementia* / diagnostic imaging
  • Frontotemporal Dementia* / pathology
  • Functional Laterality / physiology
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Temporal Lobe* / diagnostic imaging
  • Temporal Lobe* / pathology