Transient global amnesia is a benign temporary memory disorder of unknown etiology that usually affects patients aged 50 to 70 years. It often occurs in the context of physical or emotional stress.

MRI shows a typical alteration characterized by restricted diffusion focus in the hippocampal lateral margin (lesions are usually unilateral but can be bilateral and even multifocal).

The sensitivity of MRI progressively increases over time and the highest rate of detection is in 48 to 72 hours.

There is no specific therapy for this condition and the symptoms resolve spontaneously within 24 hours.