Central
Nervous System, also abbreviated as CNS, is a part of the nervous system of our
body consisting of the brain and spinal cord. A CNS disorder can either affect
the spinal cord or brain and results in psychiatric or neurological problems
especially in children. Some of the primary causes of CNS diseases that majorly
affect children include trauma, degeneration, autoimmune disorders, infections,
structural defects, tumours and strokes. Evaluating and diagnosing nervous
system problems are very complicated in nature. Therefore, if your child is
suffering from any of the above-mentioned neurological problems, it is highly
advised to get a proper CNS lab test
done at the earliest in order to avoid future complications.
Types of Neurological Tests
The
prominent types of neurological tests that are helpful in diagnosing and
evaluating the CNS problems in both children and adults include –
Computed Tomography Scan –
Also known as CT scan, this imaging technique is a type of CNS lab test that uses X-rays and computer technology to make
scanned images of the brain and spinal cord. It can be performed quickly, as
children can undergo this scanning process without any sedation.
Electroencephalogram (EEG) – This
CNS lab test procedure primarily
records the continuous electrical activity of the brain with the help of
electrodes attached to the scalp.
Electro diagnostic Tests -
It includes electromyography and nerve conduction velocity. These studies
basically help to evaluate and diagnose the muscles, nerves, and other motor
neuron problems. It cannot be performed on those children who have metals
attached to any parts of the body, such as, certain types of dental appliances
or braces.
Positron Emission Tomography scan (PET) – It is a computer-based imaging test that provides an image of the
brain’s activities rather than showing its structure. The procedure is
performed by measuring the level of an injected substance by using a tracer
molecule known as glucose.
Cerebral Spinal fluid analysis – It is also known as Spinal Tap or Lumbar Puncture. In this, a
sample of Cerebrospinal fluid is withdrawn from the spinal cord for further
examination.
Neurosonography – This
type of CNS lab test uses ultra-high
frequency sound waves and evaluates the structure of the nervous system. It
examines the structure of the brain, spinal cord, and other related structures.
Ultrasound – Ultrasound, otherwise also
known as Ultrasonography or USG, uses high-frequency sound waves and produces
the images of nerve tissues, vessels, and organs. Ultrasound is performed to
examine the functioning of the internal organs of the body and assess the flow
of blood through various vessels present in the nervous system.
