Neurologic examination

Neurologic examination or neuro exam is a type of medical examination used to assess the nervous system in a systematic and organized manner. It can be used to identify the presence of a neurological disorder, to monitor the progression of such a disorder, or to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

Overview

The neurologic examination is one of the most complex and detailed examinations in medicine. It involves the assessment of several functions and structures of the nervous system, including the cranial nerves, motor system, sensory system, reflexes, coordination, and mental status.

Components

The neurologic examination consists of several components, each assessing a different aspect of the nervous system.

Mental status

The mental status examination assesses the patient's level of consciousness, orientation, memory, attention, and other cognitive functions. It can also assess the patient's mood and affect.

Cranial nerves

The cranial nerve examination assesses the function of the twelve cranial nerves, which control functions such as smell, vision, eye movements, facial sensation, facial movements, hearing, balance, taste, swallowing, voice, and neck movements.

Motor system

The motor system examination assesses the strength, tone, and bulk of the muscles. It can also assess involuntary movements and the function of the pyramidal system and extrapyramidal system.

Sensory system

The sensory examination assesses the function of the sensory nerves, which control functions such as touch, pain, temperature, vibration, and position sense.

Reflexes

The reflex examination assesses the function of the reflexes, which are automatic responses to stimuli.

Coordination

The coordination examination assesses the function of the cerebellum, which controls coordination and balance.

See also

• Neurology
• Physical examination
• Medical history

Neurologic examination Resources
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