Advanced Testing for Neurological Conditions
It’s natural to be concerned if your doctor recommends that you or your child undergo testing for a possible neurological disorder (a condition that affects the brain, spinal cord or nerves). However, having an accurate, thorough diagnosis is the first step in understanding your condition and relieving your symptoms.
Our expert neurologists and certified technologists will use our advanced testing procedures to diagnose your condition. We’ll share your test results with you and your doctor, and then we’ll work together to create a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs.
We use a wide range of diagnostic exams for both children and adults, including:
- Imaging tests
- Neuropsychological tests
- Neurodiagnostic tests
Imaging Tests
In many cases, we need to view what’s happening inside your body to be able to accurately diagnose your neurological disorder. Some of the many imaging tests we use to do this include:
- CT scan
- MRI scan
- PET scan
- SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography, which uses a small amount of a radioactive material and a special camera to view inside the body)
- Ultrasound, including transcranial doppler (TCD), which measures blood flow through the brain
Learn more about our neuroradiology testing.
Neuropsychological Tests
Depending on your condition, your doctor may recommend neuropsychological testing. Neuropsychology focuses on how the brain is involved with thinking, learning and behavior. These tests examine various areas of thinking, such as:
-
Executive function (processes that allow you to focus your attention, make plans and control impulsive behaviors)
- Language
- Memory
- Mental processing speed
We’ll also examine your behaviors to better understand what you’re able to do well and what challenges you may be facing. These tests sometimes show that what appears to be a neurological disorder is actually due to a psychological or behavioral issue. This can help us create a more effective treatment plan for you.
Neurodiagnostic Tests
Neurodiagnostic tests let us measure and record the activity and function of various areas of your nervous system. In addition to sleep studies as part of our sleep medicine care, we use the following advanced tests to diagnose neurological disorders: