Also known as Todd's Syndrome, is a neurological condition characterized by perceptual distortions of visual perception, size, time, and space. The name "Alice in Wonderland Syndrome" is derived from Lewis Carroll's famous novel "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," in which Alice experiences bizarre changes in her body size and the surrounding environment.
Medical History: The doctor will start by taking a detailed medical history, including information about the patient's symptoms, their frequency and duration, any triggering factors (such as migraines or infections), and any family history of similar symptoms.
Physical Examination: A comprehensive physical examination will be conducted to rule out other medical conditions that might be causing the perceptual distortions. The doctor will also assess the patient's overall neurological health.
Neurological Examination: A thorough neurological assessment will be performed to evaluate sensory functions, reflexes, coordination, and other aspects of brain and nervous system function.
Diagnostic Tests: In some cases, the doctor may order specific tests to help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. These tests may include:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI of the brain can help identify any structural abnormalities or lesions that might be causing the symptoms.
Electroencephalogram (EEG): An EEG measures electrical activity in the brain and can help detect abnormal patterns that might indicate epilepsy or other neurological conditions.
Blood Tests: Blood tests may be performed to check for infections, metabolic disorders, or other medical conditions that could contribute to AIWS.
Diagnostic Criteria: AIWS is typically diagnosed based on the presence of characteristic perceptual distortions, such as micropsia, macropsia, metamorphopsia, and time distortions, along with the exclusion of other potential causes.
Clinical Observation: The doctor will assess the patient's symptoms and their impact on daily life. It's important to note that AIWS symptoms can be intermittent and may not be present during the medical evaluation.