Subthalamus

00:00 Next and final structure is the subthalamus. This structure is not shown but I do want you to understand the function of the subthalamus. This is a structural member of the basal ganglia.

00:19 So as a result, it’s going to help to control motor movements in their precision during voluntary movements. If there’s a lesion of the subthalamus, this lesion would result in a contralateral hemiballism. What are some of the potential causes of a lesion of the subthalamus? There are four that I want you to know. One may be vascular in cause, a stroke for example.

00:52 HIV infection can also cause a lesion of the subthalamus. Another possible cause is tumors or neoplasms. These are always a consideration when we’re thinking about lesions of brain structures. Then our last possible cause is somewhat of an unusual cause that could result in a lesion of the subthalamus and that is nonketotic hyperglycemia.