Test Overview

Cranial ultrasound uses reflected sound waves to make pictures of the brain and its inner fluid chambers (ventricles). Cerebrospinal fluid flows through these chambers.

This test is most commonly done on babies.

Cranial ultrasound for babies

Cranial ultrasound can only be done on babies before the bones of the skull have grown together. The test looks for possible problems of premature birth, such as periventricular leukomalcia (PVL) and bleeding in the brain (intraventricular hemorrhage, or IVH). These problems can increase a baby's risk of having disabilities.

Cranial ultrasound may also be done to check a baby's large or increasing head size. The test can also check for infection in or around the brain (such as from encephalitis or meningitis). Or it may check for brain problems that are present from birth (such as congenital hydrocephalus).

Cranial ultrasound for adults

Cranial ultrasound may be done on an adult to help find a brain mass. Because the test can't be done after the skull bones have fused, it is only done after the skull has been opened during brain surgery.