Hypoglossal Nerve Disorders
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Hypoglossal nerve disorders may be caused by tumors, strokes, infections, injuries, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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People with hypoglossal nerve disorder have difficulty speaking, chewing, and swallowing.
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Doctors usually do magnetic resonance imaging and/or a spinal tap to identify the cause.
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The cause is treated.
(See also Overview of the Cranial Nerves.)
Causes
Causes of hypoglossal nerve disorders include
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A tumor or bone abnormality at the base of the skull
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A bulge (aneurysm) in an artery at the base of the brain
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A stroke
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Infection of the brain stem
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An injury to the neck, as may occur after surgical removal of a blockage from an artery in the neck (endarterectomy)
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Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig disease)
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is usually done to look for a tumor or evidence of a stroke.
A spinal tap (lumbar puncture) may be necessary if cancer or infection is possible.
