Telemedicine applied to neurology, a syndromic approach

Abstract

Introduction: Telemedicine has proven invaluable, especially in cases like stroke, where it expedites accurate diagnosis and thrombolytic treatment initiation, thereby reducing mortality rates. Objectives: Evaluate the efficacy of telemedicine in diagnosing neurological syndromes among patients receiving outpatient care through teleneurology. Methodology:A systematic literature review was conducted using a qualitative and descriptive approach, guided by the "PICO" search and analysis strategy. The study population comprised patients seeking outpatient neurological care, with the primary interest being the assessment of telemedicine's efficiency in diagnosing neurological syndromes. Data were collected from PubMed, Scopus, and BVS databases using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Several studies demonstrated the successful application of telemedicine in neurological care. For instance, teleconsultations with patients diagnosed with cognitive impairment yielded positive outcomes, reducing demands while delaying symptom progression. However, the feasibility of telemedicine varied across different regions and patient demographics, highlighting socio-economic factors as determinants of accessibility and acceptance. Additionally, telemedicine showed promise in managing complex neurological conditions such as cerebellar ataxia, Parkinson's disease, and myasthenia gravis, albeit with certain limitations in physical examination capabilities. Conclusion: In conclusion, telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool in neurology, overcoming geographical barriers and enhancing access to specialized care. Despite its widespread adoption, challenges persist, particularly in ensuring equitable access across diverse populations. Moving forward, addressing these challenges and advancing telemedicine infrastructure will be paramount in optimizing neurological care delivery and improving patient outcomes.