How are brain diseases diagnosed?

How are brain diseases diagnosed?

The most important step in diagnosis is the history and physical exam. During the physical exam, the emphasis is on the neurologic exam. It includes motor, sensory, reflex and thinking tests. The findings of this examination direct what other tests may be needed.

Other testing may include:

• Biopsy: Your healthcare provider collects a small sample of tissue for laboratory analysis. Biopsies help determine whether a brain tumor is cancerous or noncancerous.
• Diagnostic testing: These can include an electroencephalogram (EEG) to measure your brain’s electrical activity. Evoked potentials testing assesses the transmission of nerve signals to your brain.
• Imaging tests: CT, MRI and PET scans provide detailed images of your brain. They can detect brain activity and areas of disease or damage.
• Laboratory tests: Blood, urine, stool or spinal fluid testing can help your healthcare provider understand what might be causing your symptoms. Genetic testing can identify gene mutations known to cause some brain diseases.
• Mental function tests: You complete these tests on paper or on a computer. These allow your healthcare provider to evaluate your memory, thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Neurological exam: Your healthcare provider will check for changes in your balance, coordination, hearing, eye movement, speech and reflexes.