DNA Diagnosis Several hundred diseases amenable to DNA diagnosis. List is rapidly expanding. Examples provided in chapters on specific inherited conditions. For further information: http://www.genetests.org serves as an online textbook…
Neuropsychological Evaluation Tests designed to assess cognition, behavior. Helpful in diagnosing and characterizing dementia. Characteristic patterns of performance support diagnosis of some specific conditions. Factors that may affect test performance:…
Muscle and Nerve Biopsy Helps in differentiating neurogenic and myopathic causes of limb weakness as well as specific causes of myopathy, peripheral neuropathy. Indications: syndromes of limb weakness with cause…
Lumbar Puncture and CSF Examination Lumbar Puncture (LP) Indications See Table 18.1. Table 18.1 Indications for Lumbar Puncture Essential for diagnosis: Infections: meningitis (bacterial, fungal, Whipple, Lyme) Tumor of meninges…
Endovascular Surgical Neuroradiology Treatment of cerebrovascular disease with minimally invasive intravascular techniques, i.e., introduction of microcatheter via femoral artery. Cerebral Aneurysms Catheter used to place detachable coil (usually platinum wire)…
Neurovascular Imaging CT, MRI See Chapter 13. Catheter Angiography Intra-arterial injection of iodinated contrast agent. Real-time images of contrast-filled vessels obtained via fluoroscopy. Unsurpassed for detection of stenosis, occlusion, recanalization,…
Nerve Conduction Studies, Electromyography, and Magnetic Stimulation Nerve Conduction Studies Measure speed and strength of electrical impulse conducted along motor or sensory peripheral nerve. SNAP: sensory nerve action potential. Electrical…
EEG and Evoked Potentials Definitions Electroencephalography (EEG): recording spontaneous brain electrical activity. Evoked potentials: electrical responses to specific sensory stimuli. Electroencephalography Normal Adult EEG Awake Resting State Alpha rhythm: 8–12…
CT and MRI Computed Tomography (CT) Description Based on x-rays; visual “slices” through body part showing tissue density. Gray scale of display from black (low density, e.g., fluid) to white…
Signs and Symptoms in Neurologic Diagnosis Diagnostic Factors Ninety percent of neurologic diagnosis suggested by history. Objective evaluation (exam, laboratory tests, imaging studies) usually directed at confirming or excluding diagnoses…
