Brain Tumour
Diagnosis
Source: NHS
In this topic (11)
See your GP if you developany of the symptoms of a benign brain tumour , such as a persistent and severe headache.
Your GP willexamine you and ask about your symptoms. They may also carry out a simple neurological examination (see below).
If they suspect you may have a tumour, or they are not sure what's causing your symptoms, you'll probably be referred to a neurologist (brain and nerve specialist).
Neurological examination
Your GP or neurologist maycarry out a test of your nervous system, called a neurological examination, to look for problems associated with abrain tumour.
Thismay involve tests of your:
- hand and limb strength
- reflexes, such as your knee-jerk reflex
- hearing and vision
- skin sensitivity
- balance and co-ordination
- memory and mental agility (using simple questions or arithmetic)
A neurologist may also recommend one or more of the tests mentioned below.
Further tests
Other tests you may have to help diagnose a brain tumour include:
- a computerised tomography (CT) scan this produces a detailed picture of your brain using a series of X-rays
- a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan this produces a detailed picture of your brain using a strong magnetic field and radio waves
- an electroencephalogram (EEG) where electrodes attached to your scalp record your brain activity to look for any abnormalities
If a tumour is suspected, a biopsy (surgical removal of a small piece of tissue) may be taken to establish the type of tumour and the most effective treatment.
Under anaesthetic, a small hole (burr hole) is made in the skull and a very fine needle is used to obtain a sample of tumour tissue. You'll probably need to stay in hospital for a few days afterwards.
Articles for Brain Tumour
Causes
The cause of most benign brain tumours is unknown, although a small number of cases have been linked to certain genes or previous cancer treatment.
Diagnosis
See your GP if you develop any of the symptoms of a benign brain tumour, such as a persistent and severe headache.
Introduction
A benign (non-cancerous) brain tumour is a mass of cells that grows slowly in the brain. It usually stays in one place and does not spread.
Patient story: "Having a brain tumour makes you open your eyes more and appreciate life."
Melanie Hennessy was diagnosed with a brain tumour after years of experiencing headaches. She tells her story.
Patient story: "It’s hard, but I’ve had to learn to live with it."
Joanne Glazier Reitano describes her experience of living with an inoperable brain tumour.
Patient story: "Since my illness, life has changed for me."
Nicole Witts was eventually diagnosed with a benign brain tumour after experiencing a wide range of problems for over six months. She tells her story.
Patient story: "We found Maisie’s tumour before it was too late."
Maisie Dury was diagnosed with a brain tumour when she was just two years old. Her parents, Vanessa and Ollie, describe their experience of Maisies diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
Patient story: "We wake up every day thinking how lucky we are."
Wayne Chessum was diagnosed with a brain tumour after becoming ill when he returned from a family holiday. His wife Debbie describes the experience.
Recover and care after brain tumor
After being treated for a brain tumour, you may need additional care to monitor and treat any further problems.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a benign or low-grade brain tumour depend on its size and where it is in the brain. Some slow-growing tumours may not cause any symptoms at first.
Treatment
Most benign tumours are removed with surgery and do not normally come back.
