Can a brain tumor be detected by CT scan?
A brain tumor is a growth or mass of abnormal cells in your brain. Several different types of brain tumors exist. Some brain tumors are benign, and some are malignant. Brain tumors can start in the brain, or cancer can begin in other parts of the body and spread to the brain as secondary brain tumors. If brain tumor is suspected, doctor may recommend a number of tests and procedures, such as:
- Imaging tests. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is usually used to help diagnose brain tumors. At times a dye is injected via a vein in the arm during MRI study. A number of specialized MRI scan components, such as perfusion MRI, functional MRI, and magnetic resonance spectroscopy can help your doctor evaluate the tumor and plan treatment. At times other imaging tests are recommended in certain situations, including CT scan in Gurgaon and positron emission tomography (PET – CT Scan).
MRI scans are used most often to search for brain diseases. These scans will nearly always show a brain tumor, if one is present. Doctors can frequently get an idea about what type of tumor it may be, based on how it looks on the scan and where it is in the brain.
MRI is used for looking at the spinal cord and brain and is considered the best way to search for tumors in these areas. The images they offer are usually more comprehensive than those from CT scans. But they do not pick up the bones of the skull as well as CT scans and as a result may not show the effects of tumors on the skull.
CT scan in Gurgaon is not used as often as MRI scans when looking at brain or spinal cord tumors, but they can be beneficial in some cases. They can be used if MRI is not an option, for example in people who are extremely overweight or people who have a fear of enclosed spaces. CT scans also show greater features of the bone structures near the tumor.
- A neurological exam. A neurological exam may comprise, among other things, checking your hearing, vision, coordination, balance, reflexes, and strength. Difficulty in one or more areas can offer clues about the part of your brain that can be affected by a brain tumor.
- Biopsy. A biopsy can be performed as part of an operation to eliminate the brain tumor, or a biopsy can be performed with a needle. A stereotactic needle biopsy can be done for brain tumors. The neurosurgeon drills a small hole into the skull. A thin needle is then inserted via the hole. Tissue is eliminated using the needle, which is frequently guided by MRI or CT scanning.
These are some of the common tests and procedures conducted by the doctor.
