Diagnosis Diagnosis of Perthes disease begins with a physical exam. During the exam, a healthcare professional gently moves your child’s legs into different positions to assess range of motion and identify movements that cause pain. Imaging tests play a key role in confirming the condition and may include: X-rays, which may appear normal at first. Changes linked to Perthes disease …
Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
Diagnosis Diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophy begins with a physical examination and a discussion about symptoms and family health history. A healthcare professional checks blood pressure and listens to the heart using a stethoscope. Tests that may be used to confirm the diagnosis include: Lab tests to assess blood sugar, cholesterol, and liver and kidney function. Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) …
Lead Poisoning
Diagnosis Diagnosis of lead poisoning often begins with a routine blood test recommended during well-child checkups, typically at ages 1 and 2. Older children who have never been tested or may be at risk can also be screened. A small blood sample is taken either from a finger prick or from a vein. The result is measured in micrograms per …
Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS)
Diagnosis of Lobular Carcinoma In Situ Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is most often discovered during a breast biopsy performed for another reason. It usually cannot be felt during a breast exam or seen on a mammogram. Types of breast biopsy that may be used include: Core needle biopsy A healthcare professional uses a thin, hollow needle to remove several …
Lactose Intolerance
Diagnosis A healthcare professional may suspect lactose intolerance based on symptoms and how the body responds when dairy intake is reduced. A hydrogen breath test is commonly used to confirm the diagnosis. In this test: A lactose-rich liquid is consumed. Breath samples are taken at intervals to measure hydrogen levels. High hydrogen levels indicate that lactose is not being fully …
Knee Pain
Diagnosis Diagnosis of knee pain begins with a physical examination. Your doctor may look for swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth, and visible bruising around the knee. You may be asked to move your lower leg in different directions to assess mobility, and gentle pressure may be applied to evaluate the stability and condition of the knee structures. Imaging tests may be …
Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome
Diagnosis Diagnosis of Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome begins with a physical exam and a detailed review of symptoms. Referral to a vascular malformations specialist is often recommended for a thorough evaluation and guidance on treatment options. During the assessment, the healthcare provider typically: Asks questions about family and medical history Examines the affected areas for swelling, varicose veins, and port-wine stains Visually …
Klinefelter Syndrome
Diagnosis To diagnose Klinefelter syndrome, a healthcare professional begins with a physical exam and questions about symptoms, development, and overall health. This may include examining the genital area and chest, and discussing developmental milestones and functioning. The main tests used for diagnosis include: Hormone testing: Blood tests identify changes in hormone levels that may indicate Klinefelter syndrome. Chromosome analysis (karyotype): …
Mononucleosis
Diagnosis Mononucleosis is usually suspected based on your symptoms, their duration, and a physical exam. During the exam, your doctor may look for: • Swollen lymph nodes• Enlarged tonsils• Swelling of the liver or spleen Additional tests can help confirm the diagnosis: • Antibody tests such as the monospot test, which checks for antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus and usually …
Kidney Stones
Diagnosis Diagnosis of kidney stones involves several steps to identify the presence of stones and understand their cause. A physical exam is often the first step, followed by tests such as: Blood tests to check calcium and uric acid levels and to assess kidney function Urine testing, often a 24-hour urine collection, to detect stone-forming minerals and substances that prevent …