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 Depending on the results of the
physical and neurologic examinations, the doctor may request one or
both of the following:
A CT (or CAT)
scan is a series of detailed pictures of the brain. The
pictures are created by a computer linked to an x-ray
machine. In some cases, a special dye is injected into a vein before
the scan. The dye helps to show differences in the tissues of the
brain.
MRI
(magnetic resonance imaging) gives pictures of the brain, using a
powerful magnet linked to a computer. MRI is especially useful in
diagnosing brain tumors because it can "see" through the
bones of the skull to the tissue underneath. A special dye may be
used to enhance the likelihood of detecting a brain tumor.
The doctor may also request other
tests such as:
- A skull x-ray can show changes in
the bones of the skull caused by a tumor. It can also show
calcium deposits, which are present in some types of brain
tumors.
- A brain scan reveals areas of
abnormal growth in the brain and records them on special film. A
small amount of a radioactive material is injected into a vein.
This dye is absorbed by the tumor, and the growth shows up on
the film. (The radiation leaves the body within 6 hours and is
not dangerous.)
- An angiogram,
or arteriogram, is a series of x-rays taken after a special dye
is injected into an artery (usually in the area where the
abdomen joins the top of the leg). The dye, which flows through
the blood vessels of the brain, can be seen on the x-rays. These
x-rays can show the tumor and blood vessels that lead to it.
- A myelogram
is an x-ray of the spine. A special dye is injected into the
cerebrospinal fluid in the spine, and the patient is tilted to
allow the dye to mix with the fluid. This test may be done when
the doctor suspects a tumor in the spinal cord.
SOURCE: National Institute of Health
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BRAIN
INFORMATION
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BRAIN
LINKS
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