Cognitive Abilities in Brain Damaged Patients
The presence of damage to the central and / or peripheral nervous system resulting from pathologies of a different nature (such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, dementia, cranial trauma, stroke, epilepsy or other neurological syndromes) is commonly a cause of physical and mental disability. The presence of memory or language cognitive deficits is often evident at a first clinical examination. However, difficulties in cognitive areas such as decision-making, social and emotional cognition or particular forms of learning may be less evident, while exerting a strong impact on the quality of life of patients. The main purpose of this proposal is to investigate cognitive abilities in patients with neurological damage, through a series of specific tasks. In addition, the contribution of specific brain areas to the cognitive tasks will be assessed by direct modulation of brain activity. This modulation will be achieved by using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Direct Transcranial Electric Stimulation (tDCS).
• Males or females aged between 18 and 80;
• Presence of brain damage resulting from: Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson Disease, Dementia, Cranial Trauma, Neurosurgical Intervention, Ictus, Epilepsy or Other Neurological Syndromes (for the experimental group only);
• Absence of neurological disorders (for the control group only);
• be able to follow the protocol's directions throughout the study;
• Female subjects undertake not to schedule a pregnancy for the duration of the study;
• Patients should be able to follow protocol guidelines throughout the study;
• Patients should be able to understand the aims and risks of the study;
• Signature of informed consent, approved by our Ethics Committee.