Discogram
DISC
Description
"Discogram" test helps identify whether a damaged spinal disc is causing chronic back pain. During the procedure, contrast dye is injected into spinal discs, and you’re asked if the injection reproduces your pain. X-ray or CT imaging captures detailed views of each disc. The test is typically used when surgery is being considered or other diagnostics haven’t clarified the cause. Results help doctors target the pain source and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Category
Musculoskeletal Function
Procedure
Non-Invasive
Sample Type
No biological sample is needed for this test.
Units
Not Applicable
Procedure Category
Scan
Test Group
Imaging Scans Group
Test Group Description
Imaging Scans Group: This group includes a variety of diagnostic imaging techniques used to visualize internal structures and organs in the body. These techniques may include X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine scans.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Interpretation: Not Available
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Interpretation: If the dye remains in the center of the disc, the results are normal.
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Abnormal results may indicate:
Annular tear (tear in the outer layer of the spinal disc)
Ankylosing spondylitis (inflammatory arthritis affecting the spine)
Disc degeneration (breakdown of the spinal discs)
Discitis (inflammation of the intervertebral discs)
Facet joint dysfunction (dysfunction or degeneration of the small joints in the spine)
Rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune disorder causing joint inflammation)
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (autoimmune disease affecting multiple organs and tissues)
Key Reasons For Testing
Diagnostic Imaging: Evaluates the integrity and function of intervertebral discs.
Pain Source Identification: Pinpoints discs causing back or neck pain, especially when other imaging is inconclusive.
Disc Degeneration: Detects structural changes like height loss, bulges, or herniations.
Surgical Planning: Guides decisions for discectomy, fusion, or replacement surgeries.
Discogenic Pain Screening: Distinguishes disc-related pain from other spinal issues.
Pain Severity Assessment: Reproduces symptoms to gauge the extent of discogenic pain.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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