Clinical Neuropsychology
The department is responsible for comprehensive and specialized diagnostic examinations for inpatients of the Clinic for Neurodegenerative Diseases and offers consultations for other, related clinics (e.g. neurology, neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, gerontopsychiatry).
In addition to classical neuropsychological test methods, innovative, electronically based methods are also used. Currently, we are researching tele-neuropsychological approaches to diagnostic work in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. The broad spectrum of patients includes dementia diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and fronto-temporal dementia, as well as motor neuron diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and diseases such as limbic encephalitis or normal pressure hydrocephalus. Other neurocognitive diseases we investigate and treat include HIV-induced cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, cerebral neoplasia and post-infectious cognitive impairment such as after sepsis or Covid-19 infection.
Dipl.- Psych. Catherine Widmann
Head of the department Clinical Neuropsychology
In our research we specialize in translational aspects of degenerative diseases, systemic inflammation and neuro-inflammation such as sepsis, systemic inflammation response syndrome, multiple sclerosis, HIV and now Covid-19. We take a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach to study the long-term cognitive processes that can occur after acute systemic inflammation and during the course of chronic inflammation. The ultimate goal of this research is to develop new therapeutic approaches.
Clinical neuropsychology works in collaboration with the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, with other departments of the University Hospital Bonn, such as Intensive Care and Virology, Surgery, and with the Sepsis and Infection Research Unit of the University Hospital Jena.
Clinical neuropsychology is a specialty within clinical psychology that is dedicated to the relationship between the brain and behavior. It is an essential part of the diagnosis of brain disorders, especially as a result of accidents or diseases.
The assessment of mental abilities is carried out in the context of a neuropsychological examination (often also called diagnostics or test psychological examination or testing).
During a neuropsychological examination, information is asked of the patient and often their relatives about current complaints in everyday life or at work.
The examination usually consists of conducting standardized tests using oral questions, paper and pencil, computers, handling materials such as blocks and laying puzzles and other procedures. Tests and questionnaires can also be given on psychological aspects of mood, emotional style, behavior and personality.
Depending on the scope and purpose of the examination, the test can cover a wide range of cognitive functions. Typically, this includes a systemic examination of the following areas:
- the ability to think (or intelligence),
- logical thinking and problem solving,
- attention,
- memory,
- language,
- visual-spatial skills/perception,
- sensomotoric skills,
- Personality/behavioral changes,
- emotional well-being and health-related quality of life
Why requested?
Neuropsychological studies are specifically requested to understand how the different areas and systems of the brain function. Tests are usually recommended when there are symptoms or complaints that affect memory or thinking. The change can be due to a number of medical, neurological, psychological or genetic causes.
What happens afterwards?
Neuropsychological tests and questionnaires are analyzed and interpreted with regard to relevant historical and current information and feedback is given to the referring physician.
