What Is Neuropsychological Testing? An Informative Guide

What Is Neuropsychological Testing? An Informative Guide

​Have you ever wondered, “what is neuropsychological testing and who is it done for?”
 
Read on to find out and immerse yourself into the world of neuropsychology, which combines our brain and behavior!

What Is Clinical Neuropsychology?

​Clinical neuropsychology is a field that has historical origins in psychology and neurology. A neuropsychologist would assess one’s brain functioning through structured and systematic observation of behavior. This is where neuropsychological tests come along.

What Is Neuropsychological Testing?

Neuropsychological tests are designed to help examine different cognitive abilities, such as one's speed of information processing, attention, language, memory, as well as executive functions, all of which necessary for behavior.

Neuropsychological testing began in the 20th century, which was when the modern field of neuropsychology started to emerge. It was Ralph Reitan, an American neuropsychologist, who stated the importance of such tests to help guide the systematic observations of the relationship between the brain and one’s behavior. 
 
Before using neuroimaging techniques such as the computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, professionals focused on the diagnosis. Because there weren’t many non-surgical methods to observe brain lesions and structural abnormalities in the living, the tests were the only way to see what part of the brain affected the patient.
 
When testing one’s cognitive abilities and examining their patterns of performance in various cognitive areas, neuropsychologists will be able to make inferences regarding the underlying brain function.
 
They would be able to help identify syndromes and disorders associated with that particular area of their brain. Furthermore, these tests can also be used as screening tests, for medical professionals to see if they require more extensive diagnostic evaluations. It can also be used in elderly people who have memory issues, so doctors can identify those who are more at risk for dementia compared to those who experience the typical age-related memory problems.
 
The tests are a vital part of assessing and treating neurological conditions, psychiatric disorders, traumatic brain injuries, as well as dementia. Furthermore, neuropsychological testing is a vital tool to examine the effects of different toxic substances and medical conditions on how the brain functions.

When Do You Need Neuropsychological Testing?

​One would require these tests when their doctor finds out if a neurological disease or recent injury might have affected their brain.
 
For instance, a concussion, or for patients suspected to have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD. Other conditions that may affect the brain (and require neuropsychological testing) include:
 
            •           Alzheimer’s disease
            •           Dementia
            •           Epilepsy
            •           Stroke
 
And other neurological conditions, both minor and severe.

​What Is the Procedure Like?
There are different kinds of tests that can be done, depending on your medical history, the particular symptoms experienced, as well as the potential diagnosis.
 
One of the most common types of neuropsychological testing is a mere screening test. It's also known as mini-mental exams, which are usually taken during your first neurological office visit, then taken yearly afterward.
 
If it is clinically indicated, then you may take a computerized test, with the results collecting valid and accurate brain and behavioral clinical endpoints. These would give medical professionals information between the patient’s brain function (from the central nervous system) and behavioral/neurocognitive dysfunction.
 
Again, if clinically indicated, then there may be formal neuropsychological testing required, with a neuropsychologist. This is done in patients who have more serious causes of brain trauma and injury, or neurodegenerative diseases.
 
Wrapping It Up
I hope that this quick and informative guide answered your question, "what is neuropsychological testing?" Let this be the beginning of learning more about the wonders of neuropsychology and the connections between our mind and the way we act!