Aneurysms

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Diagnosis

Because ruptured aneurysms are very serious and in some cases can be fatal, a quick and accurate diagnosis is essential for your child's recovery. Symptoms of aneurysms also can mimic those of other conditions, such as meningitis. Therefore, it is important that a definite diagnosis is made so that an effective treatment plan can be started with your child. Tests that are commonly used in the diagnosis of aneurysms include:

• Angiography -- This test is commonly used in diagnosing aneurysms. During this procedure, a special dye that can be seen on X-rays is injected into an artery that supplies blood to the brain. The dye follows the path of the brain's blood flow and can show any obstructions or leaks.

• Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) -- This procedure uses a strong magnetic field to show the arteries in the neck and brain.

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan -- With this test, X-ray beams are used to create a three-dimensional image of the brain. A CT scan can detect bleeding in the artery after the aneurysm has burst.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated August 15, 2007