Neurologist

A neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the human neurological system which includes (Fig. 1):

Figure 1. Neurologist

• The central nervous system (that is, the brain and the spinal cord);
• The peripheral nervous system (see full Glossary);
• The muscles;
• The autonomic nervous system.

Neurologists work with other specialists to diagnose and treat medical conditions that are neurologically-based. Such conditions include cerebral palsy, epilepsy and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.

When neurologists first see patients, they usually conduct a complete physical examination paying special attention to how the person’s nerves are working. Part of a neurological exam also includes looking at cognitive functions (such as memory and concentration) because difficulties with these functions could indicate a neurological impairment. Neurologists also perform complex machine-based tests  to measure the neurological skills of an individual. Such tests include the electroencephalography (EEG) test (see full Glossary), the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) test (see full Glossary), the Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) (see full Glossary) scan  and the Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan (see full Glossary).

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