Akinetic Mutism

Akinetic mutism is a neurological syndrome characterized by profound reduction in spontaneous motor activity (akinesia) and verbal output (mutism), despite preserved wakefulness and eye-opening. It commonly arises from bilateral frontal lobe, cingulate gyrus, or mesencephalic lesions due to ischemia, trauma, or tumor. Patients appear alert but fail to initiate purposeful movements or speech. Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation and neuroimaging, while electroencephalography may exclude epileptic causes. Treatment targets the underlying etiology, and recovery depends on lesion reversibility, often requiring intensive rehabilitation; prognosis is guarded in extensive structural damage.