Diagnosis & Treatment (Neurology)

Diagnosis and treatment (Neurology) involve a variety of procedures and interventions to assess and manage neurological disorders.  The different available diagnoses and treatment options can help patients with this disorder to ease their lives.

Diagnosis

  • Medical history and physical examination: A neurologist will typically begin with a thorough medical history and a comprehensive physical examination that includes a sensory function, coordination, and reflex evaluation.
  • Imaging tests: Imaging procedures like positron emission tomography (PET) scans, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to diagnose a variety of neurological conditions.
  • Electrodiagnostic tests: Nerve and muscle function are frequently assessed with the help of tests like electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS).
  • Laboratory tests: To evaluate various aspects of neurological function and detect signs of infection, blood, urine, and other laboratory tests can be done.

Treatment

  • Medications: To alleviate symptoms, medications such as muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed.
  • Physical therapy: Physical therapy can be used to help manage symptoms such as weakness or balance problems, and can help patients maintain or improve their level of functioning.
  • Surgery: In some cases, like tumors, aneurysms, or nerve damage, surgery may be necessary to treat neurological conditions.
  • Counseling and support: Counseling and support from healthcare professionals, support groups, or family and friends can be a crucial part of treatment for many neurological disorders, which can have a significant impact on a person’s emotional and mental well-being.

The specific patient and their condition will determine the diagnosis and treatment (neurology) plan, which may include a combination of the aforementioned interventions.

PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography Scan)

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PET Scan

Introduction PET scan (positron emission tomography Scan) is a functional scanning technique that uses radiotracers (radioactive substances), a special camera, and a computer to project and measure variations in metabolic processes, and other physical activities inside the body including blood flow, local chemical composition, as well as absorption. The scan reveals both normal and abnormal metabolic or biochemical activities of the tissues and … Read more

CT Scan (Computed Tomography Scan)

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CT Scan

Introduction CT scan (or Computed tomography scan) is a computerized x-ray imaging technique in which a narrow beam of x-rays is focused on a person and rotated quickly around the body that produces signals that are processed by the computer to create cross-sectional tomographic images (slices). CT scans are also called Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) … Read more

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

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Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Introduction An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a diagnostic test which measures the electrical activity of the brain or the electrical signals sent between brain cells. This electrical activity is seen on a computer screen as ‘brain waves’, which are interpreted by a specialist doctor or a technician. EEG is usually done to identify seizures in clinical … Read more

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Introduction Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is a type of scan that uses a large magnet or strong magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to create a thorough, cross-sectional image of internal body organs, tissues, and different structures. Mechanism of MRI Scan Types of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Indications of Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI has … Read more

Myelography (Myelogram)

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Myelography

Introduction Myelography is an invasive diagnostic procedure used to examine the spinal canal using x-rays. The method was first described by Sicard and Forestier in 1921.   Indications of Myelography Contraindications of Myelography Absolute contraindications Relative contraindications Procedure Before the Procedure During the Procedure After the Procedure Benefits of Myelography Risks of Myelography Summary References

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

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Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

Introduction Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is the procedure in which electrical stimulation of the brain is done to produce seizures for therapeutic purposes. Types of Electroconvulsive Therapy Bilateral ECT: The electrodes affect the entire brain and are positioned on both the left and right sides of the head. Unilateral ECT:  In this case, one electrode is … Read more

Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)

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Lumbar Puncture

Introduction Lumbar puncture (Spinal tap) is a medical procedure in which a needle is inserted into the spinal canal, most commonly to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for diagnostic testing and occasionally for therapeutic purposes. CSF Indications  of Lumbar Puncture  Contraindications of Lumbar Puncture Absolute contraindications Relative contraindications Equipment required for Lumbar Puncture Procedure  Preparation before the … Read more

Plasmapheresis

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Plasmapheresis

Plasmapheresis Plasmapheresis, also known as therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), is a non-surgical therapy that removes and replaces a patient’s blood plasma. Plasma means the liquid part of the blood and apheresis means a particular substance or component is removed from the blood. It is done to exchange plasma in the blood through an extracorporeal technique. … Read more