Letter M

Mutism, akinetic

5 views

A state in which a person is unspeaking (mute) and unmoving (akinetic).

A textbook on clinical neurology observes that a person with akinetic mutism has 'sleep-waking cycles but, when apparently awake, with eyes open, lies mute.

Immobile and unresponsive.' Akinetic mutism is often due to damage to the frontal lobes of the brain.</P> The disorder was the subject of a front-page story in The New York Times on Aug.

30, 1998. The story concerned a 14-year-old girl in Worcester, Mass.

Named Audrey Santo, bedridden for eleven years, 'inert and unspeaking, the legacy of an accidental fall into a backyard swimming pool' in 1987. 'She has had a steady stream of visitors to her home', according to the Times, 'including priests and some people who claim that they were miraculously healed by her.' According to Audrey's pediatrician, Dr.

John W.

Harding, 'She kind of gives you the impression at various times that she sees, hears, and knows who you are.'

Share this definition

Medical disclaimer

The information on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice in any way.

  • It does not replace the advice of a physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
  • It does not represent a prescription of drugs, diagnostic exams or therapies.
  • In case of symptoms, doubts or concerns about your health, always consult a qualified physician.

In case of emergency call 911 (US) or 112 (EU).