Neuro/cardio exam learning objectives

Focal lesion

single, well-defined anatomical lesion

• Usually unilateral UNLESS the lesion affects a midline structure (then it is usually bilateral)

Diffuse lesion

affects a functional/anatomical system

• Has selective vulnerability

• Usually bilateral and can show asymmetrical symptoms/signs

Symptoms

Subjective data on neurological history

Signs

Objective data seen during the neurological exam

Positive sign/symptom

symptoms/signs that the patient has but shouldn’t

*Not normally present

Negative sign/symptom

symptoms and signs that the patient doesn’t have but should

*Loss of function

Acute

sudden onset, instantaneous

Subacute

lasts weeks/months

Chronic

last years

Vascular

Localization: Focal

Time Course: Acute

Example: Stroke

Toxic

Localization: Diffuse

Time Course: Usually subacute (can be acute or chronic)

Example:

Metabolic

Localization: Diffuse

Time Course: Usually subacute (can be acute or chronic)

Example: Liver Failure

Endocrinological

Localization: Diffuse

Time Course: Usually subacute (can be acute or chronic)

Example: Diabetes, Liver failure

Nutritional

Localization: Diffuse

Time Course: Usually subacute (can be acute or chronic)

Example: Vitamin deficiency

Neoplasmic

Localization: Focal

Time Course: Subacute (malignant tumors), chronic (benign)

Example: Tumor/growths

Degenerative

Localization: Diffuse

Time Course: Chronic

Example: Parkinson’s Disease

Nernst Equation

RT = 61.5

Calculates potential of an electrochemical cell

Normal distribution of Na+, K+, and Ca++

[Na + ]o >[Na + ]i

[K + ]i > [K + ]o

[Ca2+ ]o > [Ca2+ ]i