neuro

Question 1

Which nerve is most susceptible to damage from a fracture of the shaft of the humerus

Answer 1

radial nerve

Question 2

Give 4 features of a common peroneal nerve lesion

Answer 2

• foot drop
• weakness of foot dorsiflexion and eversion
• weakness of extensor hallucis longus
• sensory loss over the dorsum of the foot and the lower lateral part of the leg
• wasting of the anterior tibial and peroneal muscles

Question 3

Differences between a benign essential tremor and Parkinson’s tremor

Answer 3

• Essential tremor worsens when holding arms outstretched
• Essential tremor worsens with activities such as writing whereas Parkinson’s tremor improves with purposeful actions
• Essential tremor is often symmetrical where PD is often asymmetrical
• Essential tremors has autosomal dominant trait where PD has no genetic trait
• Essential tremor is higher frequency than PD
• Essential tremor improves with alcohol whereas PD tremor has no change

Question 4

side effects of levodopa

Answer 4

• dry mouth
• dyskinesia
• dystonia
• postural hypotension
• psychosis

Question 5

Examples of dopamine agonists

Answer 5

Bromocriptine, Cabergoline, Pramipexole,
Ropinirole

Question 6

Examples of MAO inhibitors

Answer 6

Rasagiline or Selegiline

Question 7

Define a seizure

Answer 7

transient episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain

Question 8

general advice to offer patients with epilepsy

Answer 8

• Take caution with swimming/ heights
• To shower rather than have a bath
• Record any further episodes
• If a seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, or 2 minutes with LOC, call 999

Question 9

What follow up needs to be arranged after a child has their first epileptic seizure

Answer 9

urgent referral to paediatric neurologist