Author: Glossary

An older term for emotional disturbances of all kinds other than psychosis. It implies subjective psychological pain or discomfort beyond what is appropriate to the conditions of one’s life. The meaning of the term has changed since it was first introduced into standard nomenclature. In regard to current usage, some clinicians limit the term to…

The study of brain function and the neural substrates of behavior. This interdisciplinary field includes investigation in areas such as anatomy, genetics, biochemistry, psychiatry, and computer science. Any one of the various branches of science (e.g., embryology, anatomy, physiology, histopathology, biochemistry, pharmacology) concerned with the growth, development, and function of the nervous system.  

Binding sites in the central nervous system (CNS) for psychoactive drugs, neurotransmitters, and hormones.  

A series of tests administered to assess various aspects of cognitive functioning, including memory, attention, language, and executive functioning. The ultimate goal of the assessment is to clarify how changes in brain structure and function are affecting behavior. The administration of a set of standardized tests to examine the relationship between the brain and behavior.…

The medical specialty that combines neurology and psychiatry, emphasizing the somatic substructure on which emotions are based and the organic disturbances of the central nervous system (CNS) that give rise to mental disorders. The scientific discipline concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of all psychiatric disorders. The study of mental and nervous disorders. The…

The study of the relation between the structure of the nervous system and its function. The physiology of the nervous system neurophysiological. The study of the complex chemical and physical changes that are associated with the activity of the nervous system. The examination of the nervous system’s physiological functions.  

Pain of unknown cause that results when special nerve endings, called nociceptors, are stimulated. Neuropathic pain is possible whenever nerves are damaged by trauma; by diseases such as diabetes, herpes zoster, and late-stage cancer; or by chemical injury (e.g., toxic doses of drugs). The most dramatic and mysterious example of neuropathic pain is called phantom…

Brand name for the anticonvulsant/mood stabilizer drug gabapentin.  

The ability of the nervous system to adapt its structural organization to new situations emerging from changes of developmental and environmental situations, as well as other factors (e.g., injuries) affecting the condition of the nervous system.  

The branch of medicine that studies the organization, function, and treatment of diseases of the nervous system. The medical specialty that is concerned with diagnosis, operative, and medical treatment of the brain, spinal cord, and disorders of the nerves. The scientific study of the nervous system and its diseases. Referring to both nerves and muscles.…