The neurologic exam in neonates and toddlers

Abstract

Performing a comprehensive neurological examination in children is sometimes considered a challenge by non-neurologists. A neurologic exam which tests all aspects of all neurologic modalities can quite literally take several hours to perform. On the other hand, a very good, thorough neurologic exam which yields substantial relevant information can be performed in under 5 min. Adherence to a systematic framework or approach to the examination, appropriate for the age and abilities of the child, can be extremely helpful in simplifying the basic questions: Is this child normal, and if not, why not, and how do I describe it? This chapter will focus on how to perform some of the routine elements of the neurologic examination with tips on how to tailor the exam for various age groups.