Transient crossed aphasia associated with the right SMA syndrome following the resection of oligodendroglioma: A case report

Although language disorders associated with the left supplementary motor area are well-known, a clear mechanism of this pathology is still not fully understood. In this study, we report the case of a right-handed patient who underwent resection of oligodendroglioma located in the right superior frontal gyrus. In the immediate postoperative period, he exhibited transient severe left hemiparesis together with complete aphasia, which both gradually improved after the 3rd postoperative day. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging ruled out any vascular or other complications in the contralateral site related to speech disorders. After 3 months, the patient had almost fully recovered. To the best of their knowledge, the authors provide the first description of complete transient crossed aphasia associated with resection of the right supplementary motor area.