Science Test

• Nerve Conduction Velocity Tests

  1. Electrodes attached to different points along a nerve

  2. Nerve stimulated with electric impulse from first electrode

  3. Time measured for signal to travel to second electrode

  4. Slower than normal nerve signals may mean nerve or group of nerves damaged due to injury or disease
• Electromyography Tests


  1. Fine needle inserted into muscle

  2. Electrical activity recorded when muscle at rest and when contracting

  3. Abnormal EMG results show electrical activity at rest or abnormal electrical activity during contraction

  4. Abnormal results may mean muscle or nerve problem
• Cerebrospinal fluid


  • Clear, colorless liquid surrounding the brain and spinal cord
  • Delivers nutrients to brain and spinal cord
  • Cushions them for protection
• Analysis of Cerebrospinal Fluid

  1. Fluid can be used to detect infection

  2. Problem with myelin sheath of neurons

  3. Problem with specific neurotransmitters

  4. Collected by doctor inserting needle between lower spine bones (spinal tap)
• CT scan


  • Type of x-ray that scans head from multiple angles
  • Computer combines images to produce detailed cross-sectional or complete view of brain
• MRI scan


  • Uses magnetic fields, radio waves, and computer to create detailed, three-dimensional image
  • Can detect lesions and tumors