Hydrocephalus

Diagnosis

Mayo Clinic doctors trained in brain and nervous system conditions (neurologists) and other doctors work together as a team to diagnose your condition.

To diagnose hydrocephalus, your doctor will review your medical history, conduct a neurological evaluation and may order several tests. The tests may also be used to diagnose any related conditions and determine the cause of your hydrocephalus.

• Computerized tomography (CT) scan. This test creates a series of X-rays that provide detailed cross-sectional images of your brain.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this test, a magnetic field and radio waves create detailed, 3-D images of your brain.
• Ultrasound. In this test, sound waves create detailed images of your brain.

Read more about hydrocephalus diagnosis.