Ateneo - UPO

Approach to the neurological patient. Pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of the most common neurological disorders, as well as selected rare neurological diseases.

Core curriculum. Malattie del sistema nervoso.
Carlo Ferrarese.
Editore: McGraw-Hill Education. 2016.

To know, understand, and apply the principles of neurological examination and clinical assessment. To know, understand, and apply the principles of clinical neurology, including the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of the most common neurological disorders, as well as selected rare neurological diseases.
To develop independent clinical judgment in relation to these topics. To develop effective communication skills with patients and colleagues, ensuring accurate and continuous exchange of information throughout the clinical assessment and management process. To demonstrate learning skills that support a rational and effective approach to clinical practice.

Adequate knowledge of the anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry of the nervous system. Adequate knowledge of general pathology and internal medicine.

Interactive lectures supported by audiovisual materials. Each lecture is accompanied by a set of PowerPoint slides made available on the UPO online teaching platform. Lessons often include video materials illustrating various clinical features and neurological signs related to the disorders discussed. During lectures, students are regularly engaged through questions aimed at assessing their attention, prior and developing knowledge, understanding of the topics covered, and ability to apply this knowledge in clinical practice. Direct interaction with patients takes place during clinical placements in the ward, under the close supervision of faculty members and tutors.

The course instructor can be contacted for further information or clarification at fabiola.demarchi@uniupo.it

Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special Education Needs can request specific services and tools via the Staff Sviluppo e Coordinamento Carriere e Servizi alle Studentesse e agli Studenti, consulting the University webpage: https://www.uniupo.it/en/services/services- students-physical-or-learning-disabilities. Students with disabilities, learning disabilities or special education needs, once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities, concerning academic aspects.

Traditional oral examination consisting of an interview with the candidate. General questions are asked about the disorders included in the course syllabus. Clinical cases are presented, and the candidate is asked to outline the appropriate clinical approach and diagnostic pathway. The examination covers the anatomical and functional foundations, pathophysiology, diagnostic methods and processes, and, where appropriate, therapeutic management of specific clinical cases. Particular attention is given to the candidate’s clinical reasoning, knowledge, and understanding of the neurological disorders covered in the course. The candidate’s communication skills and overall ability to apply acquired knowledge to specific clinical situations are also assessed.

Neurological Examination and Clinical Approach

Neurological examination and neurological medical history and record
Introduction to neurological signs and clinical assessment
Pathophysiology and clinical assessment of motor disorders
Pathophysiology and clinical assessment of sensory disorders
Neuropsychology and disorders of cognitive functions
Pathophysiology and clinical assessment of cranial nerve disorders
(see Neurological Examination Module)

Main Neurological Syndromes and Disorders

Syncope
Coma and disorders of consciousness
Cerebrovascular diseases: cerebral ischemia, intracerebral hemorrhage, and cerebral venous thrombosis
Epilepsy and epileptic seizures
Brainstem and spinal cord syndromes
Headache and craniofacial pain syndromes
Traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries
Radicular and spinal cord disorders of neurosurgical relevance
Central nervous system infections
Demyelinating diseases
Intracranial tumors
Dementia and other neurocognitive disorders
Extrapyramidal disorders and movement disorders
Motor neuron diseases
Peripheral nervous system disorders
Neuromuscular junction disorders
Myopathies
Ataxias
Sleep disorders

Clinical Neurophysiology

Electroencephalography (EEG)
Electromyography and electroneurography (EMG/ENG)
Evoked potentials
(see Clinical Neurophysiology Module)

The student will demonstrate knowledge, understanding, and the ability to apply the principles of neurological examination and clinical neurology, including the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of the most common neurological disorders, as well as selected rare neurological diseases. The student will be expected to demonstrate independent clinical judgment and effective communication skills, ensuring accurate and continuous exchange of information throughout the clinical assessment and management process. The student will also acquire the ability to determine the appropriate timing and methods for rational and effective clinical management.