A. Larner – A Dictionary of Neurological Signs (Second edition)

Автор: A. Larner
Название книги: A Dictionary of Neurological Signs
Формат: PDF
Жанр: Медицина
Страницы: 348
Качество: Изначально компьютерное, E-book

As in the first edition, the belief in signs as signifiers underpins this
text. The aim is to be true to the “methode anatomo-clinique” pioneered
in neurology by Charcot,1 but also integrating, where possible,
data from newer sources such as neuroimaging and neurogenetics.
Certain omissions in the first edition have become evident to me,
necessitating a second edition (moreover, according to Michael
Holroyd, “Collectors like first editions, authors like second editions”).
Just under 700 entries have now expanded to a little under 1000. Most
signs should be elicitable with the kit typically carried by neurologists.2
New features include a greater emphasis on change in signs with ageing
and more medical history. Perspective on which signs are “really
important” has been addressed elsewhere.3 Details of neurological
conditions associated with the various neurological signs are not discussed
in any depth. Readers are encouraged to consult appropriate
texts, for one of which the author has a particular, and hopefully
excusable, bias.4
Neurological signs, like neurological diagnoses, are medical constructs
and, hence, cultural artefacts liable to change with time. Hence, all definitions
are seen as provisional rather than fixed. Systematic studies
which “operationalize” signs, both how to elicit them and how to rate
responses,5 alone will define their utility in terms of sensitivity and
specificity.