Neurologists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of brain, spinal cord, and nervous system diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, headaches, stroke, or injury.
A neurologist can order or interpret tests such as a computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or lumbar puncture to diagnose problems and may conduct tests to evaluate how well a nerve or muscle is working. A neurologist can prescribe medications to treat diseases or may refer a person to another specialist if needed.
Neurologists can be board-certified by the Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, which is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
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