As a medical professional with expertise in diagnostic imaging, I can provide you with an informed response regarding the visibility of Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs) on CT scans. Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs), also known as mini-strokes, are temporary episodes of neurological dysfunction caused by a brief interruption in blood flow to the brain. They typically last less than 24 hours and do not cause permanent damage. However, they are a warning sign of a potential stroke. CT scans, or computed tomography scans, are a type of medical imaging that uses X-rays and computer processing to create cross-sectional images of the body. They are commonly used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including strokes. When it comes to detecting TIAs, a standard head CT scan may not show any abnormalities because the changes caused by a TIA are often temporary and may not be visible in the way that a stroke, which causes lasting damage, would be. However, a CT scan can be very useful in ruling out other conditions that may present with similar symptoms, such as a hemorrhagic stroke, which would show up on a CT scan as bleeding in the brain. For a more detailed examination of the blood vessels, an angiogram, CT angiogram, or MR angiogram may be performed. These tests can help identify the location of a blockage or bleeding, which could be related to the cause of the TIA. In summary, while a standard head CT scan may not typically show evidence of a TIA, it is an important diagnostic tool for ruling out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. Angiograms and other specialized imaging tests are more likely to reveal the underlying cause of a TIA. read more >>

Tests will be done to rule out a stroke or other disorders that may cause the symptoms: You will likely have a head CT scan or brain MRI. A stroke may show changes on these tests, but TIAs will not. You may have an angiogram, CT angiogram, or MR angiogram to see which blood vessel is blocked or bleeding.read more >>