Alterations of Neurologic Function

A collection of vocabulary flashcards summarizing key concepts related to neurologic function alterations and related disorders.

Cognitive Systems

Integrates consciousness, arousal, and awareness affecting functional adequacy.

Arousal

State of being awake, a key component of cognitive functioning mediated by the reticular activating system.

Structural alterations

Alterations categorized by their location, affecting consciousness and arousal.

Supratentorial

Involves brain functions above the tentorium cerebelli, associated with arousal alterations.

Infratentorial

Relates to processes below the tentorium, often leading to declines in consciousness.

Metabolic alterations

Changes in cognitive function due to energy substrate delivery or the effects of drugs and toxins.

Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)

A scale to assess consciousness based on eye, verbal, and motor responses.

Decerebrate rigidity

A postural reflex associated with brainstem injury characterized by extension of all four limbs.

Doll's eyes reflex

A neurological test for brain stem function, observing eye movement in response to head movement.

Myasthenia Gravis

An autoimmune disorder leading to weakness from impaired transmission at neuromuscular junctions.

Cerebral Edema

Accumulation of fluid within the brain, causing increased intracranial pressure.

Hydrocephalus

Condition characterized by excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulation in the ventricles, causing pressure.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

A type of stroke caused by bleeding in the brain, often associated with hypertension.

Ischemic Stroke

Stroke due to reduced blood flow to the brain, typically from a thrombus or embolus.

Translational Stroke

A transient ischemic attack (TIA), presenting symptoms similar to a stroke but lasting less than 24 hours.

Agnosia

The inability to recognize objects, typically caused by damage to specific areas of the brain.

Aphasia

Loss or impairment of the ability to produce or comprehend language, often due to brain injury.

Corticospinal Tract

A major motor pathway that runs from the cerebral cortex to spinal motor neurons, controlling voluntary movement.

Parkinsonism

A group of motor disorders characterized by tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia due to basal ganglia dysfunction.

Dysphagia

Difficulty in swallowing, which can be associated with neurological disorders.

Seizure disorder

A condition characterized by uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain, resulting in seizures.

Cerebral Palsy

A neurodevelopmental disorder caused by non-progressive brain injury in early life, affecting motor control.

Corticosteroids in TBI

Medications used to reduce edema and inflammation following traumatic brain injury.

Neurogenic Shock

A condition caused by the loss of sympathetic tone after spinal cord injury, leading to hypotension and bradycardia.

Delirium

An acute state of confusion often resulting from underlying illnesses or substance withdrawal.

Dystonia

A movement disorder characterized by sustained muscle contractions and abnormal postures.

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Bleeding into the subarachnoid space, often presenting with explosive headaches.

Neuropathy

Damage to the peripheral nervous system, causing weakness, numbness, or pain.

Absence of Dolls' eyes

Indicates possible brainstem dysfunction in comatose patients.

Vigilance

The ability to maintain focused attention over long periods.

Executive Functions

Cognitive processes for planning, decision-making, and moderating social behavior.

Status Epilepticus

A medical emergency where seizures last longer than 30 minutes, requiring immediate intervention.