Labs and Diagnostic Tests for the Neurological System

Vocabulary flashcards covering diagnostic tests, procedures, and clinical evaluation tools for the neurological system.

Lumbar Puncture (LP)

A diagnostic procedure where a needle is inserted between L3 and L4 or L4 and L5 vertebrae to obtain a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for culture & sensitivity and additional analysis.

Intrathecal Route

A method of administering medication directly into the cerebrospinal fluid space, which can be accomplished during a procedure such as a lumbar puncture.

Myelogram

A diagnostic procedure in which contrast medium is injected into the cerebrospinal space after a lumbar puncture, followed by X-rays to outline the vertebrae and detect nerve root compression, disk herniation, or CSF blockage.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

A test that uses electrodes on the scalp to detect abnormalities in the electrical activity of the brain, used to evaluate seizures, brain activity, areas of slow activity, and lesions.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

A neuroimaging modality used to detect hemorrhage, altered ventricle size, cerebral atrophy, tumours, skull fractures, and abscesses.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

An imaging procedure used to diagnose degenerative diseases such as MS, small tumours, hemorrhages, and cerebral or spinal cord edema.

Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)

A standardized assessment tool used internationally to evaluate level of consciousness (LOC) in patients at risk for rapid deterioration by scoring Eye Opening, Verbal Response, and Motor Response.

Decorticate Posturing

An abnormal posturing response characterized by flexed wrists and fingers, flexed elbows, adducted arms, internally rotated legs, and plantar flexed feet.

Decerebrate Posturing

An abnormal posturing response characterized by extended elbows, pronated forearms, adducted arms, flexed wrists and fingers, and plantar flexed feet.

FOUR Score Coma Scale

Full Outline of UnResponsiveness; a coma assessment tool evaluating Eye response, Motor movement, Brainstem Reflexes, and Breathing patterns without requiring a verbal response.

Pupil Assessment

An evaluation checking if pupils are Equal, Round, Reactive to light, and Reactive to accommodation, measured in millimeters using a pupil gauge.

BE FAST

A clinical assessment mnemonic for stroke recognizing Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, and Time.

Relevant Neurological Diagnostic Labs

Laboratory tests relevant to the neurological system including Complete blood count (specifically WBC), Creatine kinase, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, Electrolytes, Hormone levels, Liver function, and Renal function.