Vascular: Strokes caused by lack of blood flow ( ischemic stroke) or bleeding ( hemorrhagic stroke) are the most common cause of locked-in syndrome.The most common causes of lesions in the pons and other areas of the brainstem include: It can also occur in the areas in the pons that are important for speaking and facial muscle control. Tissue damage disrupts the motor fibers that run from the brain to the body through the spinal cord. The anterior pons is a horseshoe-shaped mass of fibers that connects the cerebral cortex to the medulla. Locked-in syndrome often happens due to damage in the central area of the pons. Total immobility form: There is a total loss of motor functions, rendering a person unable to express their thoughts and needs.Incomplete form: It is similar to classical form, but the person keeps some voluntary movements other than the eye movements.Classical form: It involves total immobility with the preserved ability to blink and perform vertical eye movements.This depends on the severity of damage to the neuronal tracts that pass along the brain stem. There are three forms or types of locked-in syndrome based on the number of motor abilities preserved. Generally, a person with locked-in syndrome cannot voluntarily or consciously: They are often bedridden and rely entirely on their caregivers. However, they remain paralyzed and unable to move or speak. People with locked-in syndrome may initially be in a coma before slowly regaining consciousness. Learn more about the parts and functions of the human brain. It also contains a critical collection of gray matter and white matter.ĭamage to some brain stem regions that conditions such as stroke and tumors cause can lead to locked-in syndrome. The structure is responsible for vital body functions, such as breathing and consciousness. The brain stem is a stalk-like structure that connects the cerebrum to the spinal cord and cerebellum. However, they retain their ability to blink and move their eyes up and down, allowing them to communicate through purposeful eye movements. The inability to move their lower face prevents them from showing facial expressions. They have regular sleep-wake cycles and retain their ability to reason and think (cognitive function). People with locked-in syndrome are conscious, alert, and awake. loss of horizontal eye movements (left and right eye movements).

functional impairment of the lower cranial nerves (bulbar palsy).complete paralysis of voluntary muscles ( paraplegia).Locked-in syndrome is a rare neurological disorder that occurs due to damage in the brain stem, typically the pons.

Mental illness and shut in syndrome