Abstract Details

Title Ancient Representations of Neurological Diseases in the Pre-Columbian Era

Topic Research Methodology, �鶹��ýӳ��, and History

Presentation(s) P7 - Poster Session 7 (5:30 PM-6:30 PM)

Poster/Presentation
Number 6-001

Objective To identify and analyze historical sculptures that represented neurological conditions in the pre-Columbian era.

Background The historical appeal of neurological disorders transcends academic circles and serves as a captivating critique of the state of the times, its values, judgments, mythos, and people. Immortalized and laid bare in artistic sculptures are societal truths, at times both disparately grandiose and grotesque. In this study, we review the relationship between art and various neurological conditions and present a subjective point of view that these sculptures represent.

Design/Methods

We performed an analysis of pre-Columbian sculptures found in museums and art galleries in Ecuador. Literature review through historical archives and database search (PubMed, Google Scholar, Scielo) was also performed.

Results

Sculptures were classified and compiled into five categories: 1) facial paralysis, 2) headache and hydrocephalus, 3) epilepsy and seizures, 4) stroke and hemiplegia, and 5) tetanus. Pre-Columbian era sculptures tended to represent ancient beliefs with an emphasis on magical or miraculous imagery, historical myths, and fantastic behavior.

Conclusions

Art reveals much about societal attitudes towards neurological conditions and people with these disorders; it brandishes all that society holds dear: its truths, its misconceptions, and its emotional thralls. The historical relationship between art and neurological disorders is riveting.

Authors/Disclosures
Luis Bejar, MD (HOSPITAL TEODORO MALDONADO) PRESENTER	Dr. Bejar has nothing to disclose.
Joyce A. Jimenez Zambrano, MD	Dr. Jimenez Zambrano has nothing to disclose.