Neupsy Key

Remember: A single seizure does not lead to a diagnosis of epilepsy. Epidemiology Up to 5% of population may experience a single seizure; incidence similar in males and females. Generalised…

Remember: CT head is the initial diagnostic investigation of choice in ICH. Routine blood tests FBC (including platelet count), U & E (check for evidence of end organ damage related…

Carotid Doppler ultrasound: Detects narrowing using blood flow velocity and may identify plaque features reflecting risk. Limited by calcification and arterial anatomy. CT angiography (CTA) and contrast MR angiography (MRA):…

Onset in males at 3–5 years Mainly affects axial and proximal muscles (difficulty in walking with waddling gait, Gower’s manoeuvrea and pseudo-hypertrophy of gastrocnemius) Low IQ in up to 30%…

Remember: Presentation of these patients is varied—patients or their parents/carers are often right when they suspect VP shunt blockage—ignore them at your peril. Infants: Abnormal head growth with ‘crossing centiles’…

Remember: In lumbar spine, a herniated lumbar disc usually compresses the nerve root exiting from the foramen below the level of herniation; therefore, an L5/S1 disc prolapse will impinge upon…

Useful Selected Questions to Ask/Facts to Establish? Establish the character of the sensory disturbance (e.g. an absence of sensation (numbness), an uncomfortable sensation (dysaesthesia) or a burning or painful sensation)….

Remember: SAH should be strongly suspected in any patient describing a severe headache of instantaneous onset even in the absence of other symptoms or signs of meningism. Other symptoms: Irritation…

Remember: Haematogenous spread is the commonest cause of brain abscess. Pathology/Pathogenesis Streptococcus is the commonest organism. Multiple organisms are cultured in up to 30% of cases and usually include anaerobic,…