Reviewing the limb apraxia concept: From definition to cognitive neuropsychological models

Revisando o conceito da apraxia de membros: da definição aos modelos da neuropsicologia cognitiva

Abstract

Apraxia is a disorder of learned skilled movements, in the absence of elementary motor or sensory deficits and general cognitive impairment such as inattention to commands, object-recognition deficits or poor oral comprehension. The first studies on apraxia were performed between the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries, however controversy remains in praxis literature concerning apraxia types, neuroanatomical and functional correlates, as well as assessment and treatment of apraxia. Thus, a critical review of the literature was conducted searching the literature for evidence contributing to a more detailed description of apraxia and its clinical patterns, physiopathology and clinico-anatomical correlations, as well as apraxia assessment.

Key words:
apraxias; neuropsychology; apraxia; ideomotor