Anterior Operculum Syndrome Localized by SPECT

The aim of this case report was to present a patient with complete anarthria and orofacial apraxia without other relevant neurological deficit. The clinical features are compatible with anterior operculum syndrome. A regional brain perfusion scan was done using 99mTc-HMPAO and a SPECT gamma camera. A brain CT scan and an MRI were also performed. Brain CT and MRI were not diagnostic. On brain SPECT, hypoperfusion of the left inferior area of the frontal lobe was noted. The patient studied showed an uncommon case of anterior operculum syndrome of focal degenerative origin localized by SPECT. SPECT may be a useful and effective method for diagnosis of this unusual neurological deficit.