How to Diagnose a Brain Tumor

The process of diagnosing a brain tumor can be a very difficult journey for both the patient and the family. In addition to a total physical examination, there will be extensive neurological examination. Further testing by CT or MRI scanning will be performed if indicated by the physical and neurological findings.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Neurologist
• Diary

Examine All Criteria

1. Expect a complete history and physical. In addition to any physical indications of the possibility of a disorder of the brain, a family history will be considered. If anyone in the family has a history of cancer in the brain, the chances are slightly increased for the patient.
2. Prepare for a thorough neurological examination by a neurologist (a specialist in disorders of the nervous system). The doctor will check for coordination, alertness, reflexes, pain response and muscle strength, in addition to observing eye movement. She will listen carefully for difficulty with articulation (speaking).
3. Plan to have a CT scan or MRI to diagnose a brain tumor. Either imaging process may include a special dye to make it easier to determine if abnormal brain tissue is present. In some cases, both the CT and MRI will be performed.
4. It may be necessary to perform an angiogram. As the dye enters the brain, a series of x-rays are taken. This highlights the circulatory system feeding the brain along with any abnormalities or blockages in blood flow.
5. It may be necessary to rule out a spinal tumor. A myelogram (x-ray of the spine) may be performed. A dye is injected into the spinal fluid. To mix the dye with the spinal fluid, the patient is tilted slightly head-down. A series of x-rays are taken to monitor the flow of the dye to look for obstruction.
6. Prepare for other tests to identify the presence of tumors in other parts of the body. If multiple tumors are found in the brain, full-body imaging may be performed.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a diary of symptoms to show to your doctor. This will give a more accurate explanation of why you are presenting yourself for an examination.
• Anticipate a series of examinations and diagnostic testing before a doctor can accurately diagnose a brain tumor. There are other diseases that can manifest similar symptoms of a brain tumor.
• Seek medical intervention at the first signs of a brain tumor. The sooner your doctor can diagnose and treat the cancer, the better the chances for full recovery.