Saccadic ping pong gaze in coma

Neurologist. 2007 May;13(3):161-3. doi: 10.1097/01.nrl.0000263702.96608.1e.

Abstract

In this report, we describe the peculiar eye movements of a young man who became comatose after a head injury. The eyes moved rhythmically from one side to another, without pausing in the lateral positions. This phenomenon has been described as "ping pong gaze" (PPG), referring to short-cycling periodic alternating gaze with smooth eye deviations. In the present patient, however, a saccadic type of PPG could be confirmed by oculography. Possible clinical and pathophysiological implications are discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Coma / etiology*
  • Coma / pathology
  • Craniocerebral Trauma / complications*
  • Facial Nerve / physiopathology
  • Frontal Lobe / pathology
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Male
  • Neural Conduction / physiology
  • Ocular Motility Disorders / etiology*
  • Saccades / physiology*