neuropathological

Neuropathological is an adjective relating to neuropathology, the medical specialty that studies diseases of the nervous system tissue, including the brain, spinal cord, nerve roots, and peripheral nerves. The term is used to describe findings, processes, or examinations associated with this field. Neuropathology combines gross examination with microscopic analysis of tissue, using histological stains, immunohistochemistry, and molecular techniques to identify patterns of injury, degeneration, inflammation, demyelination, and neoplasia.

Common methods include postmortem brain examination (neuropathology autopsy), surgical brain biopsy in select cases, histology on formalin-fixed tissue, special stains (e.g., hematoxylin-eosin, Luxol fast blue, silver stains), and immunostaining for proteins such as amyloid beta, tau, alpha-synuclein, TDP-43, and markers of gliosis or demyelination. Molecular techniques and genetic testing may supplement histology.

Neuropathological assessment contributes to the diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases and other CNS disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, prion diseases, vascular cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, and CNS tumors. It also provides research insights into disease mechanisms and the development of biomarkers and therapies.

Neuropathology is a subspecialty of pathology; neuropathologists work with neurologists, radiologists, and other specialists. In forensic settings, professionals may address legal and investigative questions. The term neuropathological is widely used to describe findings, processes, or confirmations related to nervous system disease.