Neurology today

Trends and questions that matter

Neurology is one of the most dynamic fields in medicine, with breakthroughs in diagnostics, therapeutics, and care models happening at a rapid pace. This page explores how neurologists are adapting to new technologies, evolving standards, and the complex realities of brain and nerve care, with peer insights into common neurology questions.

Neurology subspecialties

Where innovation meets complexity

Each subspecialty in neurology is undergoing transformation. Below are highlights of where innovation is accelerating, and where neurologists are asking new questions.

Neuroimmunology

Improved diagnostics and targeted biologics are transforming care for autoimmune conditions like NMOSD and myasthenia gravis. Neurologists are coordinating closely with other specialties to manage complex cases.

Stroke & Vascular Neurology

AI-assisted imaging, mobile stroke units, and expanded thrombolytic windows are improving acute stroke care. Neurologists are focused on post-stroke rehabilitation and reducing disparities in access.

Sleep Medicine

Wearable tech, behavioral therapies, and new pharmacologic options are expanding treatment pathways for sleep disorders like narcolepsy and REM behavior disorder. Neurologists are integrating sleep health into broader neurological care.

Pediatric Neurology

Genetic testing, early intervention protocols, and neurodevelopmental care models are improving outcomes in epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and rare syndromes. Neurologists are focused on long-term planning and family-centered care.

Behavioral Neurology & Neuropsychiatry

Digital cognitive assessments, integrated care models, and neuroimaging advances are improving diagnosis and management of conditions like dementia, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and mood disorders. Neurologists are focused on distinguishing neurological from psychiatric symptoms and coordinating care across disciplines to support long-term cognitive health.

Common challenges in neurology

Neurologists are constantly seeking answers to stay current with evolving treatments and navigate complex care decisions.

Below are some of the most common challenges neurologists face today. Click the links to access the full case and answers from other neurologists on Healthcasts.

Diagnostic and exploratory questions

• What’s the best initial workup for a patient with a history of seizures and a subdural hematoma?
  
  • Most practitioners recommend a brain MRI and EEG.
• What laboratory or imaging tests should be used when working up patients with suspected Alzheimer's disease?
  
  • Practitioners recommend running basic labs, evaluating for UTIs, and considering an MRI and PET scan.
• What additional tests are recommended to differentiate Parkinson's from dementia?
  
  • 53% recommend a Levodopa or dopaminergic trial to assess the patient's response. 

Treatment planning questions

• What is the recommended approach for managing refractory epilepsy in an adolescent patient?
  
  • Some medications that practitioners recommend are Xcopri, Epidiolex, and Lacosamide. 
• What are the recommended preventive treatment options for chronic migraine to reduce frequency and severity?
  
  • 62% of practitioners recommend topiramate and valproate.
• What treatment is suggested for a middle-aged patient who is newly diagnosed with ALS?
  
  • 64% of practitioners recommend Riluzole as a first-line therapy.

Practice and workflow questions

• How can a digital health program improve ALS management compared to traditional in-person visits, and what are the potential challenges?
  
  • Practitioners agree that digital health programs can relieve travel burden for ALS patients, but data privacy and a less personal care approach are strong concerns.
• Where should an aging patient with mental health and memory issues be referred?
  
  • Practitioners recommend a neuropsych or psychiatric referral for the patient, with continued monitoring by a PCP.
• Should AI tools like ChatGPT play a role in clinical decision-making?
  
  • 63% of practitioners support integrating AI into clinical decisions, with 30% noting that human monitoring should be implemented as a guardrail. 

Emerging and research-oriented questions

• Should early biomarkers be used in conditions without definitive treatment?
  • Most practitioners say early treatment can help to slow progression, but it is advised to proceed with caution. 

• How can neurologists develop care plans that consider racial disparities in pain management?
  
  • Practitioners recommend an interdisciplinary pain referral, along with identifying a case worker to help advocate for the patient.
• What are the current and emerging therapeutic approaches being investigated for Angelman syndrome?
  
  • 54% of practitioners mentioned gene therapy and UBE3A targeting. 

Trending topics in neurology (2025)

To provide the best care to patients, it's vital that neurologists stay up-to-date on new developments. Here are some of the most discussed and innovative topics in 2025:

1. AI in neurodiagnostics

Tools like NeuroQuant and BrainSee are improving early detection and disease tracking in Alzheimer’s, MS, and epilepsy.

2. Gene therapy expansion

Clinical trials for SMA, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s are showing promise, with growing interest in CRISPR-based approaches.

3. Digital biomarkers & wearables

Devices are enabling real-time symptom tracking for Parkinson’s, migraine, and seizure disorders—supporting more personalized care.

4. Non-invasive neuromodulation

Techniques like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and focused ultrasound are gaining traction for depression, chronic pain, and movement disorders.

5. Multidisciplinary models of care

Neurology is increasingly integrated with psychiatry, rehab, and primary care, especially in managing complex, chronic conditions.

Stay ahead in neurology

As neurology continues to evolve, staying informed is essential. From subspecialty advances to everyday clinical decisions, Healthcasts connects neurologists with real-world consults, emerging data, and the shared expertise of their peers—so they’re ready for whatever comes next.