Application of Clinical Neurophysiology

Abstract

Clinical neurophysiology testing primarily assesses and characterizes neurological disease. Selection of appropriate studies for the problem of an individual patient requires a careful clinical evaluation to determine possible causes of the patient’s symptoms. The approach to testing can be assisted by deciding which structures are likely to be involved. For example, motor and sensory symptoms are best assessed using the different methods of motor and sensory NCS. Deciding which neurophysiological measures to apply in peripheral disorders is sometimes assisted by applying guideline protocols based on the patient’s clinical findings and what is found during testing. Although a clinical neurophysiological assessment rarely provides evidence for a specific diagnosis, it can provide valuable information about the severity, progression, and prognosis of the disease. This chapter reviews the clinical application of neurophysiological tests, particularly nerve conduction studies and needle EMG, in the assessment of patients with a variety of neuromuscular complaints.