Diagnosis Thoracic aortic aneurysms often do not cause symptoms, which makes them difficult to diagnose. They are frequently discovered incidentally during imaging tests done for other reasons. Healthcare professionals may ask about your family’s medical history, as some aneurysms can run in families. Tests Tests to diagnose or screen for a thoracic aortic aneurysm include: • Echocardiogram. Uses sound waves …
Popliteal Artery Aneurysm
Diagnosis Diagnosis of a popliteal artery aneurysm typically begins with a physical exam. A healthcare professional checks the legs for swelling, tenderness, and changes in skin color or temperature. The area behind the knee is examined closely, as this is where the aneurysm forms. You may also be asked about your medical history and lifestyle habits, including whether you smoke, …
Brain Aneurysm
Diagnosis of Brain Aneurysm Screening and diagnosis involve imaging tests and procedures to detect aneurysms or bleeding in the brain. CT scan: A specialized X-ray producing 2D slices of the brain. A CT angiogram adds contrast dye to visualize blood flow and detect aneurysms. Lumbar puncture (spinal tap): Tests cerebrospinal fluid for red blood cells if a subarachnoid hemorrhage is …
Aortic Aneurysm
Diagnosis of Aortic Aneurysm Aortic aneurysms are often discovered during exams for unrelated conditions because small aneurysms may not cause symptoms. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Medical history and physical exam: Your healthcare professional will review risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking history, family history of aneurysms, and connective tissue …
Vitamin Deficiency Anemia
Diagnosis To diagnose vitamin deficiency anemia, your healthcare professional will likely order blood tests to identify which vitamins are lacking and how your red blood cells are affected. These tests may include: Checking the number and appearance of red blood cells Measuring the amount of vitamin B-12 and folate in the blood Testing for antibodies to intrinsic factor, which indicate …
Sickle Cell Anemia
Diagnosis Sickle cell anemia is diagnosed with a blood test that checks for the sickle form of hemoglobin. In the United States, this test is part of routine newborn screening. Older children and adults can also be tested. Blood sample collection: Adults typically provide a blood sample from a vein in the arm, while babies and young children may have …
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Diagnosis Diagnosing iron deficiency anemia usually begins with blood tests that check for: Red blood cell size and color, which may appear smaller and paler than usual Hematocrit levels, which show the percentage of blood made up of red blood cells Hemoglobin levels, which indicate how well the blood carries oxygen Ferritin levels, which help measure how much iron is …
Thalassemia
Diagnosis Most children with moderate to severe thalassemia show symptoms within the first two years of life. If a healthcare professional suspects thalassemia, blood tests can confirm the diagnosis. Blood tests can reveal the number of red blood cells and any irregular changes in their size, shape, or color. They also can be used to detect gene changes in DNA. …
Aplastic Anemia
Diagnosis of Aplastic Anemia To diagnose aplastic anemia, your healthcare professional may perform the following tests: Blood tests: In aplastic anemia, levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets are lower than normal. Bone marrow biopsy: A needle is used to remove a small sample of bone marrow—usually from the hipbone—for examination under a microscope. In aplastic anemia, …
Anemia
Diagnosis of Anemia Diagnosing anemia involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and blood tests to determine the type and severity of the condition. Medical history and physical exam Your healthcare provider will ask about symptoms, family history, diet, and any chronic conditions. The exam may reveal pale skin, rapid heartbeat, or other signs associated with anemia. Blood tests …









