Section 6. Brain, Spinal Cord, and Nerve Disorders

Chapter 77. Diagnosis of Brain, Spinal Cord, and Nerve Disorders

Topics: Introduction | Medical History | Physical Examination | Diagnostic Procedures

Introduction

A neurologic examination can detect disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. This examination can also help detect muscle disorders because muscle contraction depends on stimulation by a nerve. The two main components of a neurologic examination are the medical history and the physical examination (including mental status evaluation). If necessary, diagnostic procedures are performed to confirm the diagnosis or exclude other possible disorders.

A neurologic examination differs from a psychiatric examination, which focuses on a person's behavior. However, the two examinations overlap somewhat because abnormal behavior often provides clues about the brain's physical condition.