Why see a neuropsychologist if I have already had a brain scan?
If you are seeing a medical specialist for concerns about your brain function, they may have referred you for a number of tests and investigations. These investigations often include brain scans such as CT or MRI scans. So, you may be wondering why your doctor has now referred you for your yet another test – this time a neuropsychological assessment.
Is a neuropsychological assessment useful if you’ve already had a brain scan?
In short, yes, a neuropsychological assessment can provide useful diagnostic and clinical information beyond what would be gained from a brain scan alone. We have outlined 5 key reasons why a neuropsychological assessment would be useful in this situation.
To Check How Your Brain Is Working
Whilst, a brain scan show us what brain structures look like by detecting structural changes and abnormalities, it does not show us how the brain is functioning. This is where a neuropsychological assessment is particularly useful.
A neuropsychological assessment will provide a comprehensive picture of how the brain is working. During the assessment you will complete several tests which are designed to measure different cognitive processes including:
Processing Speed
Attention and Concentration
Memory
Planning and Organisation
Visuospatial Skills
Language Skills
Flexible Thinking
Cognitive Domains Assessed in a Neuropsychological Assessment
These tests results are then analysed to develop your cognitive profile and provide a picture of your brain functioning.
2. To detect early and subtle cognitive changes
Neuropsychological assessment is a sensitive tool and can pick up on early changes in cognitive functioning that may not be visible on a brain scan. For example, people experiencing mild cognitive impairment or early dementia may not have visible changes on a brain scan even though they might be noticing memory or thinking difficulties in daily life. A neuropsychological assessment can detect these subtle cognitive changes. In addition, there are some conditions that affect thinking and cognition, but cannot be detected on brain scans. For example, ADHD cannot be seen on a brain scan, though a neuropsychological assessment can pick up on cognitive and behavioural difficulties in this condition.
3. Neuropsychologists take a wholistic approach
Neuropsychologists carefully consider many factors that might be playing a role in how your brain is functioning. They take a detailed and holistic approach and consider the impact of things like your mood, health conditions, medications and even your sleep!
4. To monitor cognitive changes
Neuropsychological assessment can monitor your brain functioning over time. This is important because many brain conditions can get worse or improve over time. Results can be compared across repeat assessment to track your progress. It is important to let your neuropsychologist know if you have had a previous assessment done so that they can compare your current results and progress.
5. To optimise function
Following a neuropsychological assessment, the neuropsychologist can help develop strategies and interventions to compensate for your cognitive challenges and difficulties. They can work with you make a personalised plan to improve your functioning and to work towards your personal goals including return to work or study.
In summary, a neuropsychological assessment is a sensitive tool that provides important diagnostic information.
Please contact us if you would like to learn more or if would like to discuss whether a neuropsychological assessment is appropriate for your situation.
Email: contact@tmneuropsych.com.au Ph: (02) 7813 0223
