Medical progress: advances in neurology

Article Abstract:

Neuroscientists and medical neurologists have made many advances during the latter half of the 20th century. New technologies have been developed to image the brain and its processes. These include x-ray computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron-emission tomography (PET), and single-photon-emission computed tomography (SPECT). Migraine is a disorder that is characterized by episodes of headache and other symptoms. Patients with symptoms of migraine must undergo laboratory and radiographic evaluation, but many patients with this disorder are never diagnosed. Those who are diagnosed can learn to avoid substances that trigger episodes, and can be treated with drugs to prevent or curtail episodes. Parkinson's disease is neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a resting tremor. Patients with this disorder are diagnosed by a favorable response with the drug levodopa. Symptoms of patients in early and middle stages of the disease can be treated with a combination of levodopa and carbidopa. Researchers are examining the use of tissue grafts to alleviate symptoms.

Nervous system, Nervous system diseases

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Advances in neurology

Article Abstract:

Epilepsy is a chronic disorder characterized by recurrent seizures that cause an altered state of consciousness. There are different types of epileptic seizures, and they are caused by many different diseases. Patients with epilepsy are diagnosed using electroencephalography (EEG). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), PET, SPECT and magnetoencephalography are also used to evaluate epilepsy patients. These patients are treated with antiepileptic drugs to prevent the occurrence of seizures. Individuals with cerebrovascular disease usually experience the sudden onset of symptoms in the form of a stroke. Eighty percent of strokes are caused by a blood clot that blocks the flow of blood to the brain, and 20% are caused by a hemorrhage. Stroke patients are usually evaluated with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Patients with cerebrovascular disease may modify their lifestyle and diet or undergo surgery to reduce their risk of a stroke. Stroke patients may be treated with drugs to decrease hemorrhaging, and to prevent another stroke.

Epilepsy, Cerebrovascular disease, Cerebrovascular disorders

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Imaging the brain, part 1

Article Abstract:

Several imaging techniques can be used to provide information about the structure of the brain and skull or information about blood flow and brain metabolism. Computed tomography (CT) scans use X-rays but also use a computer that produces cross-sectional images of the brain. Ultrasound imaging converts the electrical activity of the brain into sound waves that can estimate blood flow. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analyzes the signals from tissues placed in a magnetic field. PET and SPECT imaging use radiolabelled glucose to measure metabolic activity in the brain.

Usage, Ultrasound imaging, CT imaging, CAT scans, Brain, Magnetic resonance imaging, Radionuclide imaging, Radioisotope scanning

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