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Neuropsychological Aspects of Temporal-Lobe Epilepsy: Seeking Evidence-Based Practice

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Abstract

Surgical removal of epileptogenic brain tissue remains a primary treatment modality for some people with a seizure disorder. Assessment of psychological wellbeing and risk of postoperative disability in such patients is a primary goal of clinical neuropsychology in a comprehensive epilepsy program. This case study begins with a reflection on current understanding of assessment of memory, broader cognition and psychopathology in a patient undergoing evaluation for anterior-temporal lobectomy. Pre- and postsurgical assessment results are reported and discussed in terms of an evidence-based approach to neuropsychological assessment. In addition to a theory based-approach to assessment, utilizing the Cattell–Horn–Carrol (CHC) model of cognitive abilities, comprehensive assessment of psychological wellbeing is illustrated with administration of the MMPI-2. It is argued that surgical intervention may have good cognitive and broader psychological outcomes if the approach to neuropsychological assessment is based on quality research evidence.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Redmond Barry Building, 3010, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

    Prof. Stephen C Bowden

  2. Neuropsychology Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Redmond Barry Building, 3065, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia

    Prof. Stephen C Bowden & Dr. Leonie C Simpson

  3. Department of Medicine and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, St. Vincent’s Hospital, 3065, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia

    Prof. Mark J Cook

Authors
  1. Prof. Stephen C Bowden
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  2. Dr. Leonie C Simpson
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  3. Prof. Mark J Cook
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Correspondence to Stephen C Bowden .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, Australia

    Jamie A.B. Macniven

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Bowden, S., Simpson, L., Cook, M. (2016). Neuropsychological Aspects of Temporal-Lobe Epilepsy: Seeking Evidence-Based Practice. In: Macniven, J. (eds) Neuropsychological Formulation. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-18338-1_5

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