“Delusions” of Space

Abstract

Introduction: Delusions have received increased attention in the neuropsychological literature. However, there has been a relative lack of information published concerning delusions of “space.” More specifically, the belief that one is moving through space from “another world,” “planet,” or location, has infrequently been studied with respect to localization of dysfunction in cerebral structures. Given that other types of delusions often occur as a result of right hemisphere lesions, it is hypothesized that delusions of space occur with lesion to similar structures, and particularly the right parieto-temporal region. Several lines of converging evidence, which support this theory, are discussed. Method: In addition, a right parieto-temporo hypothesis for delusions of space is tested by use of single case study design of a male patient with closed head injury who specifically believed that he was from “another place” with someone forcing him through space to remain in a “box” (another body). Discussion: Results from neuropsychological evaluation and topographical brain mapping with QEEG lend support to this theory, with findings of right parieto-temporo dysfunction and relative asymmetry in beta (13-20 Hz) activity when left and right hemispheres were compared. Conclusions: The results provide case study evidence supporting the inclusion of QEEG as part of a neuropsychological evaluation. This approach lends itself both to double dissociation techniques in syndrome analysis and in a priori predictions using nomothetic comparisons.