brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Apraxia
Diagnosis of Apraxia
A doctor's evaluation Standardized tests of brain function Imaging tests, such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging To diagnose apraxia, doctors ask the person to do or imitate common learned tasks, such as using a toothbrush, scissors, or a screwdriver. Doctors also do a physical examination to determine whether symptoms are caused by muscle weakness or a muscle or joint problem. Family members or caregivers are asked how well the person does daily activities, such as eating with utensils, preparing meals, and writing. Certain standardized tests of brain function (neuropsychologic testing) may be done. Neuropsychologic testing provides information about how different areas of the brain are functioning. Doctors ask people questions designed to evaluate intelligence, the ability to solve problems and to plan and initiate actions (called executive function), attention, memory, language, motivation, mood and emotion, quality of life, and personality. Doctors also do simple tests and ask people to do specific movements to evaluate how well their brain processes the request (such as asking them to wave goodbye or show how a hammer is used). Imaging tests, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and other tests are done to determine the cause of the brain damage. 