Loss of Muscle Control and Mood Changes. Can You Diagnose Our Mock Patient?

  • Published8 May 2020
  • Reviewed8 May 2020
  • Author Lynnie Fein-Schaffer
  • Source BrainFacts/SfN

A 44-year-old man came to his doctor complaining of muscle spasms and unintended muscle movements. He told his doctor that recently he seems more clumsy. And, while generally even keeled, he finds himself suffering from mood changes, succumbing to irritability and sadness more often than he used to. What’s more, he is finding it difficult to recall words and use language. He has recently had a significant weight loss.


If you were this man’s doctor, what tests would you order? Review the tests in the image below, then select a maximum of three you would order to make your diagnosis.

What disorder do you think this patient is experiencing?