The TOVA, or Test of Variables of Attention, is an exceptional tool used by many neurologists and other healthcare professionals to help diagnose ADHD and other learning disabilities in patients of all ages. It utilizes geometric stimuli and two unique test conditions, target frequent and target infrequent, to gauge attention levels, reaction times, and impulsivity over the course of a designated length of time as determined by the age of the patient. Thanks to the unique nonsequential configuration of TOVA’s stimuli it can be successfully used for serial measurements, and is even designed with a specially made microswitch equipped to help reduce muscular fatigue and improve the test’s overall accuracy and reliability – even down to the millisecond. These features allow the TOVA to be much more effective than any other traditional CPT tests that currently exists in the industry today, which equates to a happier, healthier child for you. At Oakland Child and Adolescent Neurology, we utilize TOVA in our practice because we understand just how important accuracy is when diagnosing and treating such complex neurological conditions as ADHD, and other learning difficulties.
Most CPTs (continuous performance tests) rely on keyboards for recorded responses, which means that it’s common to see errors in time measurement reaching +/- 28 milliseconds. However, by using TOVA, we are able to reduce those statistics to an astounding +/- 1 millisecond, allowing us to carefully craft the most effective treatment plan for your child’s exclusive needs. Being able to monitor even the slightest variations in your child’s performance abilities helps our pediatric neurologist understand exactly what adjustments need to be made to your child’s medications or treatment at any time to help them live the best possible life. And, because TOVA is effective for patients of all ages, it is an especially efficient resource for monitoring your child’s progress as they continue to age and their brains continue to naturally develop.
ADHD, and other learning disabilities, may not be conventional disorders, as they have numerous possible underlying causes rather that one common etiology, but that does not mean that living with them is ever easy. Aside from focus and retention, learning disabilities can affect your child’s social and emotional well-being as well – which is why at Oakland Child and Adolescent Neurology, we specialize in helping children and families cope with the daily struggles of living with neurological challenges. From using TOVA to properly assess your child’s initial mental baseline, to assisting your family throughout the treatment process, our pediatric neurologist, Dr. Al, at Oakland Child and Adolescent Neurology is always here for you.
If you or someone you know could benefit from a professional pediatric neurologist, then make an appointment at Oakland Child and Adolescent Neurology with Dr. Kheir Al-Zouhayli by calling 248.720.2470, or after hours call 248.456.8507, or fill out the schedule an appointment form in the sidebar or below to learn more about Dr. Kheir Al-Zouhayli, Oakland Child and Adolescent Neurology, and how we can help you.