Chapter 22: a history of child neurology and neurodisability

This chapter reviews the fascinating history of child neurology and neurodisability from amongst its earliest recorded origins, Mesopotamian tablets, through to magnetic resonance imaging. It is the first review of such breadth in this area since Levinson in 1948. As well as covering the traditionally covered areas namely cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and mental retardation, the chapter explores other areas of pediatric neurodisability that have, since Levinson, become mainstream practice and now fall within this area of specialty. These conditions include the autistic spectrum disorders and attention deficit disorder. The dramatic advances in neural imaging and genetics in helping to explain different pediatric neurological conditions are also discussed as well as concepts and understanding concerning recovery from brain damage. The changing epidemiology of neurodisability through effective advances in acute neonatal and pediatric medical care, screening programs and social interventions are also related. Lastly, the fundamental reappraisal of society's attitude toward the disabled following World War II is explored. The lives of the disabled began to be seen to have value, belatedly gaining legal protection against discrimination, gaining dignity, independence, and for the first time being listened to.