Neuropsychological Testing
What is it?
Neuropsychological tests measure memory, concentration,
visual-spatial, problem solving, counting, and language
skills.
Who needs this procedure?
Neuropsychological testing is performed to diagnose a
brain disorder or disease, to monitor the progress of
someone who is being treated for these types of
conditions, or to screen for developmental delays or
learning disorders in children. For example, people who
have suffered a traumatic brain injury or stroke, or are
exhibiting signs of dementia, such as possible Alzheimer’s
disease, are given standardized neuropsychological tests
to evaluate their mental abilities.
How do I prepare for this procedure?
There are no special preparations for this test. The
medical professional administering the test, however,
should explain the procedure and the purpose of the test
clearly. Unless the test is court ordered, you will be
asked to sign a consent form.
How is this procedure performed?
Neuropsychological tests are administered by a
neuropsychologist, a specialist trained in the
relationship between the brain and mental functions such
as memory, language, and perception. He or she will review
your medical history, specifically noting any traumatic
head injury or neurological symptoms. Neuropsychological
tests are standardized tests. Some are administered in
written form, which means you will read a question or look
at a picture and then select a response. Other tests are
administered orally, which means you will be asked to
respond to a question or perform a skill, such as putting
items in a certain order. In this case, the
neuropsychologist will record your responses. Examples of
these types of tests include the Bender Visual-Motor
Gestalt test, Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Benton
Serial Digit Learning Test, Hopkins Verbal Learning Test,
California Verbal Learning Test, Knox Cube Test, and the
Wechsler Memory Scale. Results are analyzed, taking into
account the patient’s age and developmental stage. The
neuropsychologist also studies emotional responses and
other aspects of a patient’s mental state so treatment for
depression or other mental conditions can be pursued.
What can I expect after the procedure?
There are no side effects to this procedure. Your
doctor will inform you of the results and prescribe
appropriate treatment.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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