Which imaging test is commonly ordered to identify elevated intracranial pressures?

Computed tomography (CT) scan is commonly ordered to identify elevated intracranial pressures because it provides rapid imaging of the brain and can detect conditions that may lead to increased pressure, such as brain edema, hemorrhages, or lesions. CT scans are particularly valuable in emergency situations due to their speed and effectiveness in revealing critical conditions that require immediate attention.

In cases of suspected elevated intracranial pressure, a CT scan can swiftly show any abnormalities that may be causing the increase. This includes assessing the size of the ventricles and looking for midline shifts, which can indicate significant pressure changes.

Other imaging modalities, while useful for different purposes, are less ideal in this specific scenario. For example, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides detailed images of brain structures but is not as quick as a CT scan, making it less suitable for acute evaluations of intracranial pressure. An electroencephalogram (EEG) assesses electrical activity in the brain and does not provide structural information, making it inadequate for determining intracranial pressure. An X-ray of the skull can show fractures but does not effectively assess soft tissue or intracranial conditions, thus offering limited insight into elevated pressures.