Common Diagnostic Tests and Procedures

Biopsy of nerve tissue:-

 A specimen of nerve tissue is collected and examined microscopically to establish a diagnosis. Commonly used to diagnosis malignant

Cerebral angiography

X-rays of the brain are taken after a radiopaque substance is injected into the cerebral circulatory system. Visualizes arterial and venous circulation in the brain.

CT (computed tomography) of the brain

A computer-generated reconstruction of the brain is created from a series of x-ray images taken as cross-sections of the brain. These images (CT scans) are particularly valuable in differentiating the various tissues within the brain, such as tumors and lesions. In the case of a cerebrovascular accident (CVA). 

Electroencephalography (EEG)

The electrical potentials of the brain are recorded. Electrical changes associated with epilepsy, sleep disorders, tumors, hemorrhages, etc., can be detected. Also used to determine "brain death," which produces flat or silent EEG pattern

Electromyography (EMG)

 Electrical activity in muscle is graphically recorded after electrical stimulation. Useful in evaluating neuromuscular disorders.

Lumbar puncture (LP)

A needle is inserted between lumbar vertebrae into the subarachnoid space of the spinal column. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) can be withdrawn for analysis. A device can also be attached to the needle to measure CSF pressure. Also called analysis of cerebrospinal fluid 

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)

Magnetic energy and radiofrequencies are used to stimulate body cells to emit radio signals that are converted to images. MRI can differentiate various tissues, such as tumors and inflammatory sites. In the case of cerebrovascular accident (CVA), it can determine if a stroke is caused by blockage or hemorrhage. I

Myelography

X-rays of the spinal cord are taken after injection of a contrast material into the spinal canal. Visualizes abnormalities such as a herniated disk or spinal cord tumors.

Ultrasonography of the brain

Ultrasound is used to detect tumors, cerebral hemorrhages and cerebral blood flow.

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