Diagnosis A diagnosis of Meniere’s disease begins with a healthcare professional examining you and reviewing your medical history. Key criteria include: Two or more vertigo attacks, each lasting between 20 minutes and 12 hours, or up to 24 hours Hearing loss confirmed by a hearing test Tinnitus or a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear Because Meniere’s disease …
Medulloblastoma
Diagnosis The diagnosis of medulloblastoma usually begins with a detailed review of medical history and a discussion of signs and symptoms. Several tests and procedures may be used to confirm the diagnosis and understand how the tumor is affecting the brain. A neurological exam is commonly performed to assess vision, hearing, balance, coordination and reflexes. Changes in these functions can …
Medication Overuse Headaches
Diagnosis Medication overuse headaches are most often diagnosed based on a detailed headache history and a review of how often pain-relief medicines are used. In most cases, testing is not needed. A diagnosis is usually made when a person already has a headache disorder, experiences headaches on 15 or more days each month for longer than three months, and regularly …
Shin Splints
Diagnosis Shin splints are typically diagnosed based on a review of your medical history and a physical examination. In some cases, an X-ray or other imaging studies may be used to rule out other causes of shin pain, such as a stress fracture. Treatment Shin splints can often be managed with simple self-care measures: RestAvoid activities that cause pain, swelling, …
Measles
Diagnosis Measles may be diagnosed by a healthcare professional based on the appearance of the rash and the presence of tiny white spots inside the mouth, known as Koplik spots. The healthcare team may ask whether you or your child has received the measles vaccine, traveled to areas where measles is spreading, or been in contact with someone who had …
Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Diagnosis A healthcare professional reviews your symptoms and medical history and may perform a physical exam to check for signs of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody–associated disease, known as MOGAD. MOGAD is usually diagnosed after two important findings are confirmed. First, symptoms must be caused by a typical type of attack, such as optic neuritis, transverse myelitis, or acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. …
Muscular Dystrophy
Diagnosis Diagnosis of muscular dystrophy begins with a detailed medical history for you or your child, including overall health and past illnesses. This is followed by a physical examination to assess muscle strength, tone, and function. Based on the suspected type of muscular dystrophy, the healthcare team may recommend specific tests. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and identify the …
MCAD Deficiency
Diagnosis MCAD deficiency is usually identified through newborn screening followed by confirmatory genetic testing. Newborn screening is performed shortly after birth in many countries, including all states in the United States. A few drops of blood are taken from the baby’s heel and analyzed. If results fall outside the standard range, additional testing is arranged to confirm the diagnosis. Genetic …
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Diagnosis and tests MASLD often causes no symptoms, so it is commonly discovered during tests done for other reasons. For example, routine blood tests may show elevated liver enzymes, prompting further evaluation. Tests to diagnose MASLD, rule out other conditions, and assess liver damage include: Blood tests Liver enzyme and liver function tests Complete blood count Iron studies to measure …
Marfan Syndrome
Diagnosis Marfan syndrome can be difficult to diagnose because many connective tissue disorders share similar signs and symptoms. Even within the same family, the features of Marfan syndrome can vary widely in both appearance and severity. Doctors look for specific combinations of physical traits, medical findings and family history to confirm a diagnosis. In some cases, a person may show …