Many aneurysms are detected during an imaging scan performed for other reasons. Your doctor may recommend diagnostic imaging and testing if you have a family history of aneurysms or are exhibiting symptoms that may indicate an unruptured aneurysm.
Some of the various diagnostic tests that may be performed include:
Computerized tomography. This is better known as a CT scan. During this painless, specialized x-ray, 2D "slices" of the brain are observed. Many such slices may be captured, allowing the doctor to visualize whether bleeding in the brain is occurring or if some other type of stroke has occurred.
Magnetic resonance imaging. Known as an MRI, this imaging test can capture either 2D or 3D images of the brain. This test works via radio waves and a magnetic field to detect abnormalities like aneurysms.
Cerebrospinal fluid test. If your CT scan does not indicate bleeding but you are demonstrating symptoms of a brain aneurysm, your doctor may order a test of your cerebrospinal fluid. If there is bleeding into the subarachnoid space, red blood cells will be present in the fluid.
Cerebral angiogram. This minimally invasive test is conducted using a flexible catheter. This long tube is inserted into an artery in the wrist, groin, or another area. Using a special dye called contrast dye, delivered through the catheter to the arteries in the brain, the doctor can spot an aneurysm on x-ray films or a CT scan more readily. Cerebral angiograms are typically performed only when other tests are inconclusive.