Key Points Complex deficits and disorders result from brain injuries and may evolve over time. Most of the recovery that occurs following traumatic brain injury (TBI) is seen within the first 2 years; however, there is high interpersonal variation in…
Key Points Movement disorders result from dysfunction of neural circuits that typically include the basal ganglia. Dopamine, the best-understood basal ganglia neurotransmitter, affects the drive for movements, cognitions, and emotions. Hypokinetic disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, may include depression and…
Key Points Clinical Findings Stroke is defined as the acute onset of a neurological deficit that is due to a cerebrovascular cause; a stroke has occurred if symptoms persist for longer than 24 hours or if a permanent lesion is…
Key Points There is a high rate of psychiatric co-morbidity in patients with pain syndromes. Specific terminology is used to characterize pain and pain syndromes. Pain is transmitted in pathways involving the peripheral and central nervous systems. Psychiatric treatment can…
Key Points Incidence/Epidemiology While headaches are extremely common and usually benign, there are many dangerous causes of headache. Headaches, even when benign, can be disabling. Pathophysiology The pathophysiology of a headache depends on its underlying cause. Clinical Findings Certain headache…
Key Points Epilepsy is defined as two or more unprovoked seizures. Characterization of seizures and epilepsy syndromes is crucial in determining management and prognosis. Epilepsy may be caused by acquired brain damage or by genetic predisposition. Basic investigation of a…
Key Points The electroencephalogram (EEG) records cerebral electrical activity transmitted through the scalp, offering excellent temporal, but poor spatial, resolution. The EEG is used to detect epileptic activity, as well as focal and generalized cerebral dysfunction. The EEG is a…
Key Points When structural neuroimaging is clinically indicated, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is usually the modality of choice. Computed tomography (CT) is typically recommended instead of MRI if an acute bleed is suspected. Guidelines for obtaining structural neuroimaging studies in…
Key Points Background Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry is a medical specialty that cares for patients with problems that cross traditional boundaries between neurology and psychiatry. Neuropsychiatric symptoms and cognitive deficits can be correlated with altered function in anatomical regions and…
Key Points Cognitive impairment, behavioral changes, and psychiatric symptoms occur frequently in association with neurological conditions. A well-performed mental status and neurological examination are essential for the identification of medical and neurological conditions that impact cognition, behavior, and mood. The…