Open Access

Neuroscience

Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system. It combines physiology, anatomy, molecular biology, developmental biology, cytology, mathematical modeling, and psychology to understand the fundamental and emergent properties of neurons and neural circuits

Neurology is a branch of medicine that deals with the nervous system of disorders. Neurology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of all categories of conditions and diseases including the central and peripheral nervous systems (and their subdivisions, the autonomic and somatic nervous systems), including their coatings, effector vessels, such as muscles.  Neuroscience, a scientific study of the field of neuroscience, relies heavily on neurological practice. A neurology is a doctor specializing in neurology and training in investigating or diagnosing and treating neurological disorders.  Neurologists may also be involved in clinical research, clinical trials and basic or translational research. Although neurology is a non-surgical specialty, its associated surgical specialty is neurosurgery.

During a neurological examination, the neurologist reviews the patient's health history with special attention to the current condition. The patient then takes a neurological exam. Typically, the exam tests mental status, function of the cranial nerves (including vision), strength, coordination, reflexes, and sensation. This information helps the neurologist determine whether the problem exists in the nervous system and the clinical localization. Localization of the pathology is the key process by which neurologists develop their differential diagnosis. Further tests may be needed to confirm a diagnosis and ultimately guide therapy and appropriate management.