brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Brain Aneurysms
Diagnosis of Brain Aneurysms
Computed tomography (CT) angiography or magnetic resonance angiography Because cerebral aneurysms are near the brain and are usually small, their diagnosis and treatment differ from those of other aneurysms. Brain aneurysms may be detected incidentally when imaging tests are done for other reasons. The diagnosis of a brain aneurysm is based on results of CT angiography (CT done after a contrast agent is injected into a vein) or For digital subtraction angiography, x-ray images of blood vessels are taken before and after a radiopaque contrast agent is injected. Then a computer subtracts one image from the other. Images of structures other than arteries (such as bones) are eliminated. As a result, the arteries can be seen more clearly. Tests used to diagnose an infected aneurysm include CT angiography or magnetic resonance angiography and blood cultures. which can show the growth of microorganisms (such as bacteria or fungi). 