The Virtual Neurologist

Topic 2: The Virtual Neurologist. In this exercise, you are going to assume the role of a neurologist who ultimately must describe to a client the nature and outcome of a bullet wound to the head. Assume that you are a neurologist who is seeing a client who has survived a gunshot wound to the head. An MRI scan revealed that a small caliber bullet entered the head about 1 cm superior to the right auditory canal, and followed a relatively straight projectile before exciting the cranium about 1 cm superior to the left auditory canal. Address each of the following in your presentation:
A. Describe what structures the bullet passed through and the function of each structure. (8 points)
B. Describe what the patient can expect in terms of behavioral, cognitive, sensory, and or motor deficits and recovery of function. (8 points)
C. Include a picture or diagram of the bullet projectile illustrating which structures have been damaged. Label important structures. (4 points)
Supplementary References:
• Diamond, M.C., Scheibel, A.B., and Elson, L.M. (1985). The human brain coloring book. N.Y: Barnes & Nobel Books.
• Kolb, B. and Whishaw, I.Q. (2009). Fundamentals of human neuropsychology. N.Y: W.H. Freeman and Company.
• Stahl, S.M. (2007). Essential psychopharmacology: Neuroscientific basis and practical applications. Cambridge University Press.
Useful Web Sites:
• Brain Museum – an excellent collection of the brains of various species from the University of Wisconsin
• The Brain – a diverse collection of animations, articles, and brief presentations.
• Brain Maps – brain mapping from UC Davis. Very sophisticated collection!
• Brain Explorer – fun and informative collection.
Each chapter of your text contains many useful and interesting web sites. It is strongly recommended that you utilize this information.