If a medical condition causes problems with memory, language, attention, or planning, a behavioral neurologist may enter the picture. This physician has general training in neurology (the study of the brain and nervous system), as well as special training in cognition (the study of how humans gain and process knowledge). He or she looks for changes in cognition caused by a medical condition. Besides epilepsy, many other conditions (including head injury, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, and brain tumor) may lead a patient to be evaluated by a behavioral neurologist. Frequently, a neuropsychologist also sees these patients.

Where does a behavioral neurologist work?

Behavioral neurologists are usually found in centers that focus on one neurological disorder or condition, such as epilepsy. Some hospitals and centers have set up a "cognitive neurology" or "behavioral neurology" program. These are usually outpatient programs that include a team of specialists. These teams typically include a neuropsychologist, a neuropsychiatrist, a clinical social worker, and a clinical psychologist.

What will the behavioral neurologist do during my visit?

Generally, an evaluation by a behavioral neurologist includes:

• A complete review of your medical history and charts.
• A neurologic examination, including specific tests of mental functions (such as language, memory, attention, planning, and visual or spatial ability).
• An assessment of your behavior, daily functioning, and coping skills.
• On occasion, additional testing, monitoring in the hospital, or MRI, PET, and SPECT imaging.

What kind of help can the behavioral neurologist offer?

Once information is gathered from the review, examination, and tests, a specialized treatment plan is discussed. This can include long-term treatment. A behavioral neurologist can prescribe medications that treat cognitive and behavioral problems and complaints. Sometimes, other treatments are proposed, such as cognitive remediation (also called retraining). Cognitive remediation may help you develop greater mental flexibility, better working memory, and more effective planning skills.

Topic Editor: Steven C. Schachter, M.D.
Last Reviewed:12/15/06