RT Book, Section A1 Ryan, Melody A1 Ryan, Stephen J. A2 DiPiro, Joseph T. A2 Yee, Gary C. A2 Haines, Stuart T. A2 Nolin, Thomas D. A2 Ellingrod, Vicki L. A2 Posey, L. Michael SR Print(0) ID 1197550865 T1 Evaluation of Neurological Illness T2 DiPiro’s Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach, 12th Edition YR 2023 FD 2023 PB McGraw Hill PP New York, NY SN 9781264264544 LK accesspharmacy.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1197550865 RD 2024/03/28 AB KEY CONCEPTS Accurate diagnosis of neurological disorders leads to effective pharmacotherapy. The clinical neurologic history and examination are the cornerstones of neurologic diagnosis and management. History and examination should be modified for the pediatric patient as appropriate. The neurologic history and examination are directed at localizing the disease process to derive a differential diagnosis. After forming the differential diagnosis, appropriate testing helps pinpoint the correct diagnosis. Accurate diagnosis leads to appropriate therapy and management of neurologic conditions. Specific neurologic history and examination are useful for monitoring and evaluating the pharmacotherapeutic plan. Lumbar puncture (LP) should only be performed when it can be done safely. Relative contraindications may include increased intercranial pressure, mass lesions, papilledema, and coagulopathies.