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Update on Transient Global Amnesia (TGA): Current Theories Underlying the Etiology, Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Management of TGA

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Abstract

Purpose of review

This review discusses a condition known as Transient Global Amnesia (TGA). We discuss the most up-to-date theories related to etiology and risk factors, as well as its correlations to other conditions such as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS).

Recent findings

In these other conditions, there appears to be an involvement in a mind-brain-body connection, potentially through a sympathetic surge leading to cerebral vasoconstriction and hypoperfusion. Although TGA is thought to be a seemingly benign condition, it can mimic other neurological emergencies such as stroke and seizure. A more thorough understanding of TGA is necessary for appropriate patient counseling.

Summary

The etiology of TGA is still unclear but initial diagnosis and management should focus on ruling out conditions, such as seizure and stroke, that require more urgent treatment and monitoring. Overall prognosis of TGA is favorable since it is associated with high likelihood of symptom resolution and a low recurrence risk.

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    1. Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 525 East 68th Street, F610, New York, 10065, NY, USA

      Nara Miriam Michaelson MD, Sarah A. Friedman MD & Judy H. Ch’ang MD

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    1. Nara Miriam Michaelson MD
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    Correspondence to Judy H. Ch’ang MD.

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    Nara Miriam Michaelson, Sarah A. Friedman and Judy H. Ch’ang have no conflict of interest to disclose.

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    Michaelson, N.M., Friedman, S.A. & Ch’ang, J.H. Update on Transient Global Amnesia (TGA): Current Theories Underlying the Etiology, Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Management of TGA. Curr Treat Options Neurol 25, 231–239 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11940-023-00759-2

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