Chapter 10: Nervous System: Pathology and Laboratory Tests Flashcards
hydrocephalus
Abnormal accumulation of fluid (CSF) in the brain.
spina bifida
Congenital defects in the lumbar spinal column caused by imperfect union of vertebral parts (neural tube defect).
Alzheimer disease
Brain disorder marked by gradual and progressive mental deterioration (dementia), personality changes, and impairment of daily functioning.
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
ALS
Degenerative disorder of motor neurons in the spinal cord and brainstem.
epilepsy
Chronic brain disorder characterized by recurrent seizure activity.
Huntington disease
Hereditary disorder marked by degenerative changes in the cerebrum leading to abrupt involuntary movements and mental deterioration.
multiple sclerosis
MS
Destruction of the myelin sheath on neurons in the CNS and its replacement of plaques of sclerotic (hard) tissue.
myasthenia gravia
Autoimmune neuromuscular disorder characterized by weakness of voluntary muscles.
palsy
Paralysis (partial or complete loss of motor function).
Parkinson disease
Degeneration of neurons in the basal ganglia, occuring in later life and leading to tremors, weakness of muscles, and slowness of movement.
Tourette syndrome
Involuntary, spasmodic, twitching movements; uncontrollable vocal sounds; and inappropriate words.
herpes zoster
shingles
Viral infection affecting peripheral nerves.
meningitis
Inflammation of the meninges; leptomeningitis.
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) encephalopathy
Brain disease and dementia occurring with AIDS.
brain tumor
Abnormal growth of brain tissue and meninges.
cerebral concussion
Type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head.
cerebral contusion
Bruising of brain tissue resulting from direct trauma to the head.