ABSTRACT
This book highlights those rare, difficult to diagnose or controversial cases in contemporary clinical neuropsychology. The evidence base relevant to this type of work is almost by definition insufficient to guide practice, but most clinicians will encounter such cases at some point in their careers. By documenting the experiences and learning of clinicians who have worked with cases that are ‘out of the ordinary’, the book addresses an important gap in the literature.
The book discusses 23 challenging and fascinating cases that fall outside what can be considered routine practice. Divided into three sections, the text begins by addressing rare and unusual conditions, defined as either conditions with a low incidence, or cases with an atypical presentation of a condition. It goes on to examine circumstances where an accurate diagnosis and/or coherent case formulation has been difficult to reach. The final section addresses controversial conditions in neuropsychology, including those where there is ongoing scientific debate, disagreement between important stakeholders, or an associated high-stakes decision. This text covers practice across lifespan and offers crucial information on specific conditions as well as implications for practice in rare disorders.
This book will be beneficial for clinical neuropsychologists and applied psychologists working with people with complex neurological conditions, along with individuals from medical, nursing, allied health and social work backgrounds. It will further be of appeal to educators, researchers and students of these professions and disciplines.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
chapter 1|6 pages
Introduction
part 1|123 pages
Rare and unusual conditions
chapter 3|17 pages
Disconnection syndrome and optic aphasia following left hemisphere posterior cerebral artery stroke
chapter 5|21 pages
A rare and challenging differential diagnosis
chapter 8|9 pages
Galactosaemia
chapter 9|20 pages
Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antibody encephalitis
part 2|143 pages
Diagnostic challenges
chapter 10|16 pages
Neuropsychological, neuropsychiatric, and functional neurological symptoms
chapter 12|29 pages
Deafness or brain injury?
chapter 15|9 pages
‘Ugly sound'
chapter 16|15 pages
Variability and validity
part 3|93 pages
Controversial issues and conditions