Transient nonverbal learning disorder in a child suffering from Familial Hemiplegic Migraine

Objective: To study the link between nonverbal learning disorder and right cerebral hemisphere dysfunction due to migraine attack in a case of Familial Hemiplegic Migraine.Background: Familial Hemiplegic Migraine can cause neuropsychological deficits besides the motor ones. The nonverbal learning disorder is thought to be caused by a right hemisphere dysfunction.Methods: We describe a child with Familial Hemiplegic Migraine type 2 who showed a transient neuropsychological impairment featuring a nonverbal learning disorder during and after a Hemiplegic migraine attack.Results: Clinical and neuropsychological data showed a nonverbal learning disorder. A mutation in the ATP1A2 gene on chromosome 1q23 was found. Symptoms of nonverbal learning disorder outlasted the left hemiparesis. Two months later he showed a full recovery. Neurophysiological and neuroradiological evaluations were congruent with clinical course and with right hemisphere involvement.Conclusion: The link between nonverbal learning disorder an...