If your healthcare provider thinks you might have a brain tumor, you will need exams, imaging scans, and tests to know for sure.
X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to make images of internal tissues, bones, and organs on film. Standard X-rays are done for many reasons, including diagnosing tumors or bone injuries.
A computed tomography (CT) scan is an imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed images of the body. A CT scan shows details of the bones, muscles, fat, and organs.
Computed tomography is an imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed images of the body. A CT scan shows details of the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than standard X-rays.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a large magnet, radiofrequencies, and a computer to make detailed images of organs and structures within the body, in this case, the brain and spine. MRI is used to help diagnose a health problem.
A positron emission tomography (PET) scan is a type of nuclear medicine imaging test. It is used to examine various body tissues to identify certain conditions by looking at blood flow, metabolism, and oxygen use. PET scans may also be used to see how well the treatment of certain diseases is working.
An EEG is a procedure that detects abnormalities in your brain waves, or in the electrical activity of your brain.
A craniotomy is the surgical removal of part of the bone from the skull to expose the brain for surgery. Read on to learn what to expect before, during, and after this procedure.
It's OK to feel overwhelmed and afraid. But you shouldn't let those feelings stop you from finding out as much as you can about your cancer and about the choices you have.
Before your healthcare provider can recommend a treatment plan, they need to know the grade of the cancer. The grade tells your healthcare provider how likely the tumor will spread and how it might respond to treatment.
A myelogram is a diagnostic imaging test generally done by a radiologist. It uses a contrast dye and X-rays or computed tomography to look for problems in the spinal canal. Problems can develop in the spinal cord, nerve roots, and other tissues. This test is also called myelography.