Clinical Neurophysiology

Clinical Neurophysiology is a medical specialty that studies the central and peripheral nervous systems through the recording of bioelectrical activity, whether spontaneous or stimulated. It encompasses both research regarding the pathophysiology along with clinical methods used to diagnose diseases involving both central and peripheral nervous systems. Examinations in the clinical neurophysiology field are not limited to tests conducted in a laboratory such as EEGs and NCSs. It also includes special tests which monitor activities in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.

History

The history of clinical neurophysiology dates back to the 19th century with the first EEG. The development of neurophysiology as a medical specialty was a gradual process, with many of the techniques and methods still in use today being developed over the course of several decades.

Techniques

Clinical neurophysiology uses a variety of techniques to diagnose and monitor neurological disorders. These include:

• Electroencephalogram (EEG): This test measures the electrical activity of the brain.
• Electromyogram (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity of muscles.
• Nerve Conduction Study (NCS): This test measures the speed and strength of signals traveling between two or more points.
• Evoked potentials: These are tests that measure the electrical responses of the brain and other parts of the nervous system to specific sensory stimuli.

Clinical Applications

Clinical neurophysiology can be used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including epilepsy, sleep disorders, neuromuscular diseases, and peripheral neuropathies. It can also be used to monitor the progress of these conditions over time.

Training and Certification

In many countries, clinical neurophysiology is a recognized subspecialty of neurology, psychiatry, or physical medicine and rehabilitation. Training in clinical neurophysiology includes a medical degree followed by a residency in neurology, psychiatry, or physical medicine and rehabilitation. This is then followed by a fellowship in clinical neurophysiology.

See Also

• Neurophysiology
• Neurology
• Psychiatry
• Physical medicine and rehabilitation

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