Diagnosis of Glioblastoma
Glioblastoma is a fast-growing brain tumor made up of spongioblasts, which are epithelial cells in the nervous system. Glioblastoma is malignant, and most people who have it will die from it. Doctors use several tests to make a diagnosis of glioblastoma.
Physical Exam
The first step in any diagnosis, including glioblastoma, is going to a doctor for a physical exam. The doctor will check to see if the patient is experiencing any of these symptoms: loss of coordination or balance; memory loss; changes in sight, sound or smell; weakness or paralysis in any part of the body; speech difficulty; problems swallowing; seizures or loss of consciousness; and headaches, with or without nausea or vomiting.
CT Scan
To help diagnose glioblastoma, a doctor may order a computed tomography (CT) scan. The scan produces multiple, detailed pictures of the brain to help locate anything abnormal such as a tumor.
MRI
Another type of diagnostic test for glioblastoma is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Magnetic fields and computer technology combine to offer a three-dimensional view of the brain.
Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), not to be confused with MRI, is an additional test that may aid in the diagnosis of glioblastoma. This test creates an image of the blood vessels that supply nutrients to the brain tumor and can help a surgeon develop a plan for removing it.
Positron Emission Tomography
Positron emission tomography (PET) is an imaging tool that provides a detailed account of the body, including cells that are cancerous. A PET scan is often done after glioblastoma is diagnosed to help a doctor see the best part of the tumor that can be used for biopsy. If treatment of the tumor is successful, a PET scan can detect whether it grows back.
Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography
Single-photon emission computer tomography (SPECT) can produce a cross-sectional image of the brain. A radioactive substance such as Thallium-201 is administered intravenously for absorption by normal and cancerous brain cells. Like positron emission tomography, SPECT can diagnose the recurrence of a brain tumor.
Tags: brain tumor, diagnosis glioblastoma, tomography SPECT