ABSTRACT
Executive function is a uniquely human ability that permits an individual to plan,
carry out, and monitor a sequence of actions that is intended to accomplish a goal.
This crucial neurobehavioral capacity depends on the integrity of the frontal lobes,
most importantly the dorsolateral prefrontal cortices and their connections. Executive
dysfunction is associated with a wide range of neurologic disorders that affect these
regions. In this paper, executive dysfunction is considered from the perspective of
behavioral neurology, and the lesion method is employed to illustrate this impairment
in a diverse group of disorders. Frontal system damage leading to disturbed executive
function is common and clinically significant. Recognition of this syndrome is critical
for ensuring the correct diagnosis, accurate prognosis, and appropriate treatment
of affected patients. Executive dysfunction also represents an intriguing aspect of
brain-behavior relationships and offers important insights into one of the highest
cerebral functions.
KEYWORD
dysfunction - frontal lobes - dementia
