Diagnosis A healthcare professional may diagnose migraine with aura based on your symptoms, medical and family history, and a physical examination. The evaluation focuses on identifying a pattern of recurring headaches that are preceded or accompanied by neurological symptoms. Typical features that support a diagnosis of migraine with aura include repeated headache episodes with the following characteristics: Pain on one …

Diagnosis To determine whether a child has microcephaly, a healthcare provider collects detailed prenatal, birth and family medical history and performs a physical examination. A key part of the evaluation involves measuring the circumference of the child’s head and comparing it with standard growth charts. The head measurement is repeated at future visits to track growth over time. In some …

Diagnosis Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) often causes no symptoms and is usually discovered by chance during routine blood tests. After an initial finding, additional tests may be done to confirm the diagnosis and check for complications: • More blood tests to rule out other causes of elevated protein levels and to assess kidney function• Urine tests collected over …

Diagnosis Your healthcare professional begins by discussing your symptoms, reviewing your medical history, and performing a physical examination. A neurological exam is also done to evaluate how well your nerves and muscles are working together. During the neurological exam, your healthcare professional may assess: Reflexes Muscle strength Muscle tone Senses of touch and sight Coordination Balance Several additional tests may …

Diagnosis Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is diagnosed by checking tissue samples or nasal secretions for drug-resistant bacteria. The sample is sent to a laboratory where it is placed in a nutrient-rich dish to encourage bacterial growth. Traditional cultures take about 48 hours to show results, but newer tests can detect staph DNA within hours, allowing for faster diagnosis. During a …

Diagnosis Several foot conditions can cause symptoms similar to metatarsalgia, so identifying the exact source of pain is important. A healthcare professional will examine your foot while you are standing and sitting to assess pressure points, alignment and areas of tenderness. You may be asked about your daily activities, footwear, exercise habits and lifestyle, as these factors can contribute to …

Diagnosis Metastatic prostate cancer diagnosis often involves blood tests and imaging tests. This type of cancer is advanced and has spread to other parts of the body, making it a stage 4 prostate cancer. PSA testing measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. Prostate-specific antigen is a substance made by prostate cells. A small amount circulates in the …

Diagnosis Diagnosis of metachromatic leukodystrophy begins with a physical examination, including a detailed neurological exam. A healthcare professional reviews symptoms and medical history to look for signs of nerve and brain involvement associated with the disorder. Several tests may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and assess how advanced the condition is. Lab testsBlood tests are used to detect the …

Diagnosis If you experience pain after eating that leads you to avoid food and results in weight loss, a healthcare professional may suspect chronic mesenteric ischemia. This condition occurs when blood flow to the small intestine is reduced, usually due to narrowed arteries. Confirming the diagnosis involves identifying narrowing or blockages in the main arteries that supply blood to the …

Diagnosis To determine a diagnosis and check for related complications, a healthcare provider may recommend several steps to better understand your symptoms and overall health. This often begins with a physical exam. The doctor tries to rule out physical conditions that may be causing or contributing to mental health symptoms. Lab tests may also be suggested. These can include checks …