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Chapter 18 - The Role of Neuropsychology in Epilepsy Surgery

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  11 October 2019

By
Brent A. Funk  and
Dana R. Connor
Edited by
Vibhangini S. Wasade  and
Marianna V. Spanaki
Vibhangini S. Wasade
Affiliation:
Henry Ford Medical Group HFHS, Michigan
Marianna V. Spanaki
Affiliation:
Wayne State University, Michigan
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Summary

Broadly speaking, clinical neuropsychology is an applied science concerned with the behavioral expression of brain dysfunction. A thorough clinical interview aimed at understanding previous and current functioning, as well as current factors that may influence the patient’s performance on testing, is the foundation of a neuropsychological evaluation.1 Comprehensive neuropsychological assessments aim to identify the patient’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as to evaluate the status of overall brain function, different brain regions, and networks. Although there is no standard neuropsychological test battery, the following domains are typically assessed: performance validity, premorbid and intellectual functioning, attention and working memory, processing speed, language abilities, visuospatial skills, verbal and nonverbal learning and memory, executive functioning, and motor abilities. Objective measures of personality and affective functioning are also commonly administered.

Type
Chapter
Information
Understanding Epilepsy
A Study Guide for the Boards
 , pp. 346 - 356
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2019

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