D. Frank Benson's quest for a better view: the neuro-imaging of neurobehaviour

Neuro-imaging developed in the last half of this century at a time when neu ro-behaviour was rejuvenated by greater interest in the cognitive correlate s of structural and functional brain lesions. Perhaps more than any other i ndividual within the growing behavioural neuroscience discipline D. Frank B enson embraced the latest neuro-imaging techniques of the rime and applied them to the cognitive and behavioural deficits he found through careful exa mination of patients. From the early days of pneumoencephalography to radio isotope scanning, cisternography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance i maging, and positron emission tomography, Benson sought out the best imagin g technique that promised a better view of brain behaviour relationships. H is interests were far reaching and open minded but he always stressed the p rimacy of the careful clinical exam above any laboratory result. This revie w of his contribution to neuro-imaging in behavioural neurology documents t he new vistas he helped open for those who followed his lead through these rich landscapes; and emphasizes the caution necessary when mapping brain be haviour relationships.