Diagnosing Aneurysms

The methods that a doctor may use to diagnose an aneurysm will depend on its type and location.

Aortic Aneurysm

The doctor will x-ray the patient's chest and abdomen, and will also run an electro-cardiogram test to ensure that they have not had a coronary attack. They may also run a CT or MRI scan to get more accurate results. Occasionally, the clotted blood that lines most aortic aneurysms can break off and result in a blockage (occlusion) of a blood vessel in another part of the body. These may be found on physical examination and confirmed by medical imaging.

Cerebral Aneurysm

If the doctor suspects a leaking brain aneurysm, the patient will be admitted to hospital immediately. Although diagnosis may be confirmed with the use of a head CT or MRI scan, the best way is usually by the use of an angiogram. This is carried out X-raying the head after the blood vessels have been injected with a contrast agent such as water and iodine salts). This provides a radiological picture of the blood vessels in the brain, giving precise detail of an aneurysm's size and location. Cerebral aneurysms are often discovered incidentally when an angiogram, head CT or MRI scan is performed for some other reason.

If there is any doubt, a lumbar puncture will be carried out, where a sample of cerebrospinal fluid is collected by passing a long, hollow needle between two vertebrae in the lower part of the back. This is done under local anaesthetic. There will be blood in this fluid if the aneurysm is leaking.