Normal<unk>  gland on MRI (T1 sagittal without contrast enhancement). The arrow points at the posterior<unk>  (intense signal), and the arrowhead at the anterior<unk> . It is recommended that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the<unk>  gland is performed if the diagnosis is suspected; this has a sensitivity of over 90% for detecting<unk> ; it may demonstrate infarction (tissue damage due to a decreased blood supply) or hemorrhage. Different MRI sequences can be used to establish when the<unk>  occurred, and the predominant form of damage (hemorrhage or infarction). If MRI is not suitable (e.g. due to claustrophobia or the presence of metal-containing implants), a computed tomography (CT) scan may demonstrate abnormalities in the<unk>  gland, although it is less reliable. Many<unk>  tumors (25%) are found to have areas of hemorrhagic infarction on MRI scans, but<unk>  is not said to exist unless it is accompanied by symptoms. In some instances, lumbar puncture may be required if there is a suspicion that the symptoms might be caused by other problems (meningitis or subarachnoid hemorrhage). This is the examination of the cerebrospinal fluid that envelops the brain and the spinal cord; the sample is obtained with a needle that is passed under local anesthetic into the spine. In<unk>  the results are typically normal, although abnormalities may be detected if blood from the<unk>  has entered the subarachnoid space. If there is remaining doubt about the possibility of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), a magnetic resonance angiogram (MRI with a contrast agent) may be required to identify aneurysms of the brain blood vessels, the most common cause of SAH. Professional guidelines recommend that if<unk>  is suspected or confirmed, the minimal blood tests performed should include a complete blood count, urea (a measure of renal function, usually performed together with creatinine), electrolytes (sodium and potassium), liver function tests, routine coagulation testing, and a hormonal panel including IGF-1, growth hormone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyroid hormone, and either testosterone in men or estradiol in women. Visual field testing is recommended as soon as possible after diagnosis, as it quantifies the severity of any optic nerve involvement, and may be required to decide on surgical treatment.
Pituitary apoplexy
Empty sella syndrome
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Oculogyric crisis
Watershed stroke
Exploding head syndrome
Oculocerebrorenal syndrome
Transient ischemic attack