This handbook celebrates the abundantly productive interaction of neuropsychology and medicine. This interaction can be found in both clinical settings and research l- oratories, often between research teams and clinical practitioners. It accounts for the rapidity with which awareness and understanding of the neuropsychological com- nents of many common medical disorders have recently advanced. The introduction of neuropsychology into practice and research involving conditions without obvious neurological components follows older and eminently successful models of integrated care and treatment of the classical brain disorders. In the last 50 years, with the growing understanding of neurological disorders, neuropsychologists and medical specialists in clinics, at bedside, and in laboratories together have contributed to important clinical and scienti c advances in the und- standing of the common pathological conditions of the brain: stroke, trauma, epilepsy, certain movement disorders,tumor, toxic conditions (mostly alcohol-related), and degenerative brain diseases. It is not surprising that these seven pathological con- tions were the rst to receive attention from neuropsychologists as their behavioral symptoms can be both prominent and debilitating, often with serious social and economic consequences.
The recent surge of interest in the neuroscience of autism, HIV/AIDS, cancer, Alzheimer's, and other disorders has brought with it an increasing awareness of the effects of medical conditions on the brain and behavior-an awareness extending through the research and practice arenas, among those working with pediatric and adult clients alike. Comprehensive in scope and highly detailed in its coverage, the Handbook of Medical Neuropsychology is organized to give readers knowledge of the field, whether one needs to understand a clinical evaluation, design a research study, or gain a deeper understanding of disease processes and corresponding behaviors. Featuring the most up-to-date information on cognitive neuroscience to enhance the work of the practitioner, the student, or the researcher, the book handles theory, historical background, practical considerations, and controversial areas with clear explanations, clinical expertise, and real-world insight, and critiques diagnostic and assessment tools specific to disorders. The wide selection of commonly seen and rarely encountered diagnoses covered includes:
? Primary nervous system disease and injury.
? Vascular system disease.
? Developmental, genetic, and structural disorders.
? Dementia and normal aging.
? Immune-related disorders.
? Endocrine disease.
? Metabolic conditions.
? Plus a chapter on current and emerging approaches to rehabilitation.
Opening out a specialty as it grows in importance, the Handbook of Medical Neuropsychology is an essential resource for the neuropsychology clinician, researcher, or graduate student. It will be stimulating and relevant reading for years to come.
