To the Editor.—
Ericson et al (240:671, 1978) described a dialysis patient with unilateral internal carotid artery stenosis manifested by contralateral hemiparesis, plantar extensor response, and, most remarkably, contralateral asterixsis fluctuating in intensity with systemic blood pressure and abating with endarterectomy. They pointed out that bilateral asterixis may be a sign of global encephalopathy whereas unilateral asterixis indicates contralateral hemispheric dysfunction. We would like to contribute a case of subcortical infarction manifested by unilateral asterixis coupled with mild hemiparesis.
Report of a Case.—
An 83-year-old woman was in good health until 24 hours before admission when she noted sudden light-headedness and left-sided weakness. She was brought to the hospital where neurological examination showed normal mental status, fluent speech, and mild left-sided face and arm weakness. Sensory examination was normal. Reflexes were increased on the left, and asterixis was present as well.A blood chemistry study using an automated multiple analysis