A neurologic deficit refers to abnormal function of a body area. This altered function is due to weaker function of the brain, spinal cord, muscles, or nerves.
Examples include:
- Abnormal reflexes
- Inability to speak
- Decreased sensation
- Loss of balance
- Mental function problems, such as memory loss
- Vision changes
- Walking problems
- Weakness of the arms or legs
Images
References
Griggs RC, Jozefowicz RF, Aminoff MJ. Approach to the patient with neurologic disease. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 25th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 396.
Klatt EC. The central nervous system. In: Klatt EC, ed. Robbins and Cotran Atlas of Pathology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2015:chap 19.
Review Date 3/12/2019
Updated by: Alireza Minagar, MD, MBA, Professor, Department of Neurology, LSU Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
