Phantom limb and multiple sclerosis

Neurology. 1979 May;29(5):724-6. doi: 10.1212/wnl.29.5.724.

Abstract

Phantom limb phenomena are most often associated with amputations, although they may accompany many neurologic disorders. In the neurologic variety, expression of illusory limbs varies with the level at which the somesthetic pathway is interrupted, and with changes in consciousness. Phantom limb illusions are rarely reported in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The patient reported here complained of a supernumerary phantom limb during an exacerbation of MS. This case suggests that in neurologic diseases, phantom limb illusions may result from distorted perception of limbs that are subject to both sensory loss and such recurrent spontaneous sensations as paresthesias.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Illusions / etiology
  • Illusions / physiopathology
  • Male
  • Multiple Sclerosis / complications*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / physiopathology
  • Phantom Limb / etiology*
  • Phantom Limb / physiopathology
  • Spinal Cord / physiopathology