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Global Aphasia Evaluation

The evaluation of aphasia begins with a medical history and physical examination.

The diagnosis of aphasia can be made without testing, but testing is required to determine the underlying cause for aphasia.

Tests for aphasia may include:

CT scanning of the brain
MRI scan of the brain
SPECT scanning:

A newer method that may provide earlier detection of stroke in some cases

PET scanning of the brain:

Can detect changes in brain metabolism and activity.

Blood clotting studies
Electrocardiogram
Blood electrolytes
Blood glucose
Pulse oximetry
EEG

Other tests that may be required if a stroke or TIA is the cause for the aphasia:

Carotid angiogram:

A special x-ray procedure that can detect blood vessel narrowing in the carotid arteries, which often cause strokes.

Carotid duplex ultrasound, or doppler ultrasound:

Can detect narrowing and reduced blood flow in the carotid arteries that supply the brain

C-reactive protein
Coagulation profile and bleeding time
Homocysteine level
LDL level
HDL level
VLDL level
Total cholesterol level
Lp-PLA2:

Often elevated in people who are at high risk for stroke

Continue to Global Aphasia Treatment

Last Updated: Nov 16, 2010 References
Authors: Stephen J. Schueler, MD; John H. Beckett, MD; D. Scott Gettings, MD
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PubMed Global Aphasia References

Berthier ML. Poststroke aphasia : epidemiology, pathophysiology and treatment. Drugs Aging. 2005;22(2):163-82. [15733022]
Dobkin BH. Clinical practice. Rehabilitation after stroke. N Engl J Med. 2005 Apr 21;352(16):1677-84. [15843670]
Grossman M, Ash S. Primary progressive aphasia: aNeurocase. 2004 Feb;10(1):3-18. [15849155]
Mesulam MM. Primary progressive aphasia--a language-based dementia. N Engl J Med. 2003 Oct 16;349(16):1535-42. [14561797]