Neurological Disorders

Introduction

Topic Index

Overview of the Nervous System

Anatomy of the Brain

Diagnostic Tests

Brain Tumors

Congenital and Hereditary Disorders

Neurological Disorders in the Newborn

Headaches

Inflammatory and Infectious Disorders

Neuromuscular Disorders

Seizures and Epilepsy

Neurocutaneous Syndromes

Trauma

Glossary

Online Resources

The nervous system is a complex, sophisticated system that regulates and coordinates the body's basic functions and activities. It is made up of two major divisions, including the central nervous system (consisting of the brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (consisting of all other neural elements). The central nervous system controls thought, behavior, and movement. The peripheral nervous system relays information to the central nervous system for transmitting messages to muscles and glands. 

In addition to the brain and spinal cord, principal organs of the nervous system include the eyes, ears, sensory organs of taste, sensory organs of smell, and sensory receptors in the skin, joints, muscles, and other parts of the body.

The nervous system is vulnerable to various disorders. Because of its complexity and the high technology used in evaluation and treatment of its disorders, the branches of medicine, physician specialists, and clinical services that manage it are as numerous and varied as the disorders and conditions.

Pediatric neurologists and neurosurgeons specialize in the management and treatment of neurological conditions that only affect children - from newborns to adolescents.