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The neuropsychological evaluation involves testing that is sensitive to problems in brain functioning. Unlike CT or MRI scans, which show what the structure of the brain, neuropsychological testing examines how well the brain is working when it performs certain functions (for example, learning, memory, processing speed, attention, language, and visuospatial abilities).
Neuropsychological evaluation may be beneficial when:
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A neuropsychological evaluation can be helpful whenever questions arise regarding possible brain-related impairment in cognitive functioning (e.g., thinking abilities) or behavior. Referrals are generally made to diagnose or rule out the following conditions, and to identify their impact on a person’s cognitive functioning:
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Intelligence
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Memory Loss (to include questions of normal aging versus mild cognitive impairment or dementia)
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Attention Deficit Disorder
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Stroke and Cerebrovascular Disease
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Seizure Disorders
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Emotional/Behavioral Problems
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Cognitive Dysfunction Tied to Other Factors (e.g., medication effects, sleep disruption, pain, etc.)
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Personality and Emotional Status
Neuropsychological evaluations involve:
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A neuropsychological evaluation involves a comprehensive evaluation of an individual’s cognitive and behavioral functioning using a set of standardized, tabletop tests and procedures. Various thinking abilities are systematically tested, including, but not limited to:​
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Intelligence
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Reasoning and Problem Solving
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Planning and Organization
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Attention
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Visual and Perceptual Abilities
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Learning and Memory
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Language
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Sensory and Motor Abilities
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Personality and Emotional Status
Results of the neuropsychological evaluation can:
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Identify or rule out problems in brain functioning
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Form a diagnosis (e.g., distinguishing dementia versus mild cognitive impairment or depression)
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Define a person’s cognitive and behavioral strengths and weaknesses
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Guide treatment and rehabilitation for neuro-medical, educational or vocational purposes
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Provide treatment recommendations to other healthcare providers
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Document possible changes in cognitive or behavioral functioning over time
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Clarify decision-making capacity