Laboratory Tests and Diagnostic Procedures

Question 1

Cerebral Angiography

Answer 1

X ray imaging of the blood vessels in the brain after the injection of contrast material into an artery.

Question 2

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis

Answer 2

Chemical tests (for sodium, chloride, protein, and glucose) cell counts, cultures, and bacterial smears on samples of CSF to detect diseases of the brain or meninges.

A lumbar puncture is used to remove CSF for analysis.

Question 3

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

Answer 3

Cross-sectional x-ray images of the brain and spinal cord with and without contrast.

Question 4

Electroencephalography

Answer 4

Recording of the electrical activity within the brain.

Question 5

Lumbar Puncture (LP)

Answer 5

Introduction of hollow needle into a space surrounding the spinal cord to withdraw cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for analysis.

Pressure of CSF is measured and contrast may be injected for imaging.

AKA Spinal tap.

Question 6

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Answer 6

Magnetic waves and radiofrequency waves are used to create images of the brain and spinal cord.

Question 7

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan

Answer 7

Uptake of radioactive material into the brain shows how the brain uses glucose and gives information about brain function.