Imaging tests are procedures that produce images of internal body organs, tissues, structures and pathways. They may be used in the diagnosis of health conditions and the management of disease. Imaging tests may also be used to assist certain procedures and surgeries. Patients with emotional health disorders may have imaging tests to help identify the source of a problem or to rule out other conditions that might be responsible for their symptoms.

Some mental health conditions that affect the brain may be diagnosed with an imaging test. These include disorders that may cause psychosis and cognitive disorders. Imaging tests can also be helpful in diagnosing damage caused by eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and pica.

The most commonly used imaging tests for diagnosing emotional disorders include:

• Computed axial tomography (CAT) scan. Also known as a CT scan, it is a noninvasive or minimally invasive test that uses a rotating x-ray device to create detailed cross-sectional images (or slices) of different body parts.
  
  
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A safe and noninvasive or minimally invasive test that produces clear, cross-sectional or three-dimensional images of the body’s tissues, even through bone and other obstructions.
  
  
• Ultrasound. Uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal organs or tissues.
  
  
• X-ray. A test in which an image is created of part of the body by using low doses of electromagnetic radiation that are reflected on film or fluorescent screens.

Imaging tests are generally performed by a radiology technician in a hospital or outpatient clinic. Patient preparation differs depending on the nature of the test to be performed, but may include modifications to a patient’s diet or medication regimen. In some instances, a patient may be injected with a dye known as a contrast medium. This solution makes certain organs and tissues in the body more visible. The imaging test procedures are different depending on which test is performed. Generally, patients are able to return home the same day of the test.

Imaging tests generally carry very few risks to the patient. However, some tests such as x-rays and CAT scans that use radiation should not be performed on pregnant women unless the potential benefits of these tests outweigh their risks.