Overview of Neuropsychological Testing

The neuropsychological examination is the ultimate extension of the mental status examination (MSX). Neuropsychological testing involves the administration of standardized, validated, and reliable instruments to patients, usually under the supervision of a professional neuropsychologist. Referral for this testing is necessary in some patients who have undergone prior levels of MSX and require even more investigation. The mental status examiner must know when to refer for neuropsychological testing, the nature of the tests administered, and how to interpret the results. When this testing is obtained, the referring clinician must integrate and incorporate the results into the complete neurocognitive profile of the patient. This chapter addresses these points. Rather than a compendium of neuropsychological instruments, it is an overview of the neuropsychological process including common test batteries and the neuropsychologist’s report.