Nervous System Disease, Human

nervous system disease, any of the diseases or disorders that affect the functioning of the human nervous system. Everything that humans sense, consider, and effect and all the unlearned reflexes of the body depend on the functioning of the nervous system. The skeleton and muscles support and transport the body, and the digestive system, heart, and lungs provide nutrients; but the nervous system contains the epitome of the human—the mind—and commands all perception, thought, and action. Disturbance or malfunction of the functions of the nervous system causes changes felt throughout the body. Although many brain diseases cause disorders of thought or mood, this article discusses only diseases of the nervous system that have organic causes. For a discussion of psychological disorders, see mental disorders.

The first part of this article describes the neurological examination—the medical history, the physical examination of the patient, and the diagnostic tests and procedures that can be employed to provide a physician with information about a possible neurological disorder. Next the principles used in localizing a disease within the nervous system are explained. The third part of this article provides an overview of pathological processes. Finally, an account is presented of the diseases of the nervous system, using a general classification based upon the primary or major site of the disease.