Abstract Details

Title A Tour through the Zoo of Neurology: Animal Eponyms and the Refinement of Clinical Acumen

Topic History of Neurology

Presentation(s) P05 - (-)

Poster/Presentation
Number 263

Objective

Background BACKGROUND: Neurology is a field known for "eponymophilia". While eponyms inspired by scientists' names have been a controversial subject, animal-related metaphoric descriptions continue to flourish in neurologic practice. These colorful eponyms may be a result of an apophenic illusory phenomenon called pareidolia and are a useful method of recognizing clinical and radiologic patterns that aid in the diagnostic process.

Design/Methods DESIGN/METHODS: We performed a literature review and discuss animal-inspired metaphoric descriptions of clinical and neuroradiologic findings.

Results RESULTS: We discuss the many zoologically-based eponyms relating to hand postures, gait disorders, physiognomy, vocalizations, movement disorders, pathological findings, and neuroradiologic findings (brain, spinal cord, and vertebra) as well as the etiologic implications of each sign.

Conclusions CONCLUSIONS: The ability to recognize a resemblance between clinical phenomena and animal-like attributes may be related to pareidolia. This apophenic phenomenon may strengthen a cardinal diagnostic skill in neurologic practice: pattern recognition. Animal-inspired metaphorical descriptions should not be viewed as cabalistic or pejorative, but instead as colorful, interesting, and useful aides-memoire that enliven and improve the practice of neurology.

Authors/Disclosures
Shin C. Beh, MD, FAAN (Beh Center for Vestibular & Migraine Disorders) PRESENTER	Dr. Beh has received publishing royalties from a publication relating to health care.
Elliot M. Frohman, MD, FAAN	Dr. Frohman has received personal compensation in the range of $10,000-$49,999 for serving as a Consultant for Janssen. Dr. Frohman has received personal compensation in the range of $10,000-$49,999 for serving on a Speakers Bureau for Janssen. Dr. Frohman has received personal compensation in the range of $10,000-$49,999 for serving as an Editor, Associate Editor, or Editorial Advisory Board Member for Up To Date. Dr. Frohman has received publishing royalties from a publication relating to health care.
Manuela Matta	No disclosure on file

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