[Disorders of psychological function in neurological diseases and in work capability]

There are many different psychiatric disorders connected with neurological diseases, such as the disorders of intellectual and cognitive functions, personality changes, neurotic and psychotic behaviour. It is important for a neurologist to recognize these disorders, because they may be of great importance in evaluating work and professional capability, especially in intellectual professions. Neurologists inclined to objectivization of neurological deficit may overlook these disorders. In making an expertise it is essential to differentiate between the reversible (transitory symptoms, clouding of consciousness) and the irreversible disorders (personality changes, intellectual impairment--dementia). Also it should be kept in mind that psychopathological features of organic psychosyndromes are characterized by common psychopathological syndromes and that they represent non-specific types of reaction. Apart from diagnosing a particular psychological disorders, when making an expertise one should also describe the disorders of various psychological functions and their impact on work and professional capability and social behaviour. The author stresses the necessity of stating diagnostic criteria for the evaluation of the psychological deficit level in neurological diseases. Basic education in neurology should be accompanied by the continuous gathering of information in neuropsychology and organic psychiatry.