Neuro-Diagnostic Tests Explained

What are Neuro-Diagnostic Tests?

Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and Electromyography (EMG)

NCS measure the speed and effectiveness with which the nerves in the arms or legs send messages to the muscles or from the skin.
EMG is an additional technique for evaluating skeletal muscles to ascertain whether they are producing normal or abnormal electrical activity.

Evoked Potential (EP) Tests

EP tests measure small electrical responses that may be recorded from the scalp when a stimulus is presented. The stimulus can be visual (Visual EP), auditory (Brain Stem Auditory EP) or sensory to the arms or legs (Somatosensory EP).

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

An EEG is a safe and painless test, recording electrical activity of the brain using small disc electrodes placed on the surface of the scalp.

Why would I need a Neuro-Diagnostic Test?

A Neuro-Diagnostic Test is one of the most sophisticated diagnostic tools available to help a referring clinician understand the cause of your particular health issue.

What can be diagnosed with a Neuro-Diagnostic Test?

EMG & NCS Tests can serve to distinguish between diseases that primarily damage muscle tissue (such as muscular dystrophy) or nerves (such as peripheral neuropathy).
EP tests are often utilised to assist in the diagnosis of suspected multiple sclerosis.
An EEG conveys information about brain function and is particularly useful in patients who may have had an episode, seizure, fit or experienced fainting – primarily to exclude epilepsy.

Who can’t have a Neuro-Diagnostic Test?

Most people can have a Neuro-Diagnostic Test as long as you have a referral from a relevant clinician.

Please call 0845 450 3559 for more details.