What should a neurologist know about a neuropsychological examination?
Anna Barczak
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A neuropsychological examination forming part of a medical diagnosis – akin to other tests – facilitates the verification of the preliminary nosological diagnosis. The title of a neuropsychologist is obtained through a four-year specialist training in clinical psychology, culminating in a state examination. Neuropsychological diagnosis is functional in nature, and describes the type of cognitive dysfunctions present, their degree of severity, and possible aetiology. Neuropsychological examination is conducted when cognitive deficits are elusive in the screening, or the results of other tests have not clarified the diagnostic hypotheses. In addition to assessing the patient’s cognitive state, neuropsychological diagnosis allows for predicting the further course of dysfunction, setting directions for rehabilitation, and estimating the possibility of returning to professional or school duties. In addition, psychoeducational interventions provide guidance for the family and caregivers on how to deal with the patient. Neuropsychological assessment also describes the interaction between socio-emotional and environmental factors that determine appropriate treatment or subsequent care. This is possible due to an extensive diagnostic process, which, in addition to clinical-experimental methods (clinical trials) and standardised measurement techniques (depending on the patient’s needs and condition), also includes the analysis of available documentation, a clinical interview, and the formulation and communication of feedback. In addition to describing the characteristics of neuropsychological examination, the paper discusses its role and usefulness in medical diagnosis, and outlines the possibilities and limitations of neuropsychological diagnosis. The paper contains practical information for neurologists, which should be considered before referring patients for a neuropsychological examination.