To diagnose a brain tumor, the doctor starts by asking questions about
your symptoms and taking a personal and family health history. Then
he or she performs a physical exam, including a neurological exam. If
there's reason to suspect a brain tumor, the doctor may request one or
more of the following tests:
Imaging studies such as a CT(CAT) scan or MRI to see detailed
images of the brain
Angiogram or MRA, which involve the use of dye and X-rays of
blood vessels in the brain to look for signs of a tumor or
abnormal blood vessels
The doctor may also ask for a biopsy to determine whether or not the
tumor is cancer. A tissue sample is removed from the brain either
during surgery to remove the tumor or with a needle inserted through
a small hole drilled into the skull before treatment is started. The
sample is then sent to a lab for testing.
How Are Brain Tumors Treated?
Surgery to remove the tumor is typically the first option once a brain
tumor has been diagnosed. However, some tumors can't be surgically
removed because of their location in the brain. In those cases,
chemotherapy and radiation therapy are both options for killing and
shrinking the tumor. Sometimes, chemotherapy or radiation is also
used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. Tumors that are
deep in the brain or in areas that are difficult reach may be treated
with Gamma Knife therapy, which is a form of highly focused
radiation therapy.
Because treatment for cancer also can damage healthy tissue, it's
important to discuss possible side and long-term effects of whatever
treatment is being used with your doctor. The doctor can explain the
risk and the possibility of losing certain faculties. The doctor can also
explain the importance of planning for rehabilitation following
treatment. Rehabilitation could involve working with several different
therapists, such as:
Physical therapist to regain strength and balance
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