This study offers evaluation and treatment of patients with a variety of neurological disorders that may require surgery. The protocol is not designed to test new treatments; rather, patients will receive standard care. The study is designed to: 1) allow NINDS's Surgical Neurology Branch staff to learn more about changes that cause nervous system disorders, 2) train physicians in the evaluation and treatment of these disorders; and 3) establish a pool of patients who may be eligible for other NINDS protocols. (Participants in this protocol will not be required to join another study; the decision will be voluntary.)

Patients of all ages with a disorder of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) or pituitary gland that may require surgery for diagnosis or treatment may be eligible for this study. In some cases surgery will not be needed. Candidates will be screened with a medical history and physical examination.

Participants may undergo tests, medial treatment, or surgical treatment to help diagnose or treat their condition. In most cases, care provided at the NIH will be limited to evaluation and surgery. Procedures may include laboratory tests, imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scans, angiograms, and other procedures to confirm the patient's diagnosis or help guide treatment. Patients who require surgery will be offered standard surgical care at NIH. Those whose procedure includes removal of tissues or fluids for diagnostic studies will be asked to allow a portion of the tissue to be used for research purposes, including analysis for gene and protein abnormalities that may be involved in causing the disorder or in influencing the patient's response to treatment. Blood samples will also be drawn for research.