“Can an x-ray show brain swelling?”
I am a 43 year old male. I want to know if an x-ray can show brain swelling?
5 Answers
A radiograph or 2D X-ray does not show brain swelling, as the X-rays will not penetrate the skull (although an X-ray of the skull is a standard exam). However, a CT or MRI can indeed demonstrate if brain swelling is present. Note that CT creates the image with the use of X-rays in a way to create a cross sectional image and can use that data for images in other planes such as coronal and sagittal. MRI does NOT use X-rays, but rather radio wave (in a strong magnet) and hence is performed without radiation.
CT of the head can show brain swelling, and an MRI of the brain is even better for brain swelling and a large range of brain abnormalities.
No. Need CT or MR.
No. X-ray has no ability to see brain swelling at all. If you want to see brain swelling, the best imaging tests are either CT scan or MRI scan, depending on the patient's situation.
Yes
