Brain tumor diagnosis can be an involved process, given the complexity of the brain. Several brain tumor tests may be necessary to get an accurate diagnosis, including imaging. At Henry Ford, we have a team of specialized neuro-pathologists, doctors specifically trained to diagnose brain tumors.Brain tumor diagnosis: initial evaluation
While brain tumor diagnosis and testing varies by individual, some common initial tests include:
- Medical history: Your neurologist will ask you specific questions to gain insight into your personal and family health history.
- Neurological exam: This series of tests is designed to assess vision, hearing, smell, touch, balance, reflexes, specific movements, and thinking and memory.
- Brain tumor imaging: If your medical history and neurological exam indicate a possible brain tumor, one or more imaging tests may be ordered. Options include an MRI or CT scan.
- Tests for other tumors: Some tumors initially form in the brain, while others begin as cancer elsewhere in the body and then metastasize (spread) to the brain. Additional tests may be necessary to determine the origin of the original tumor, which affects treatment recommendations.
Further brain tumor testing with latest tools
A correct diagnosis is essential for determining the most appropriate brain tumor treatment. In addition to reviewing any initial brain tumor imaging or other tests, we may order one or more of the following specialized tests:
- Biopsy: A surgeon removes a sample of the brain tumor for analysis with a microscope.
- Magnetoencephalography (MEG): This advanced neuroimaging technique maps brain activity with magnetic fields. Henry Ford has the only available MEG system in Michigan.
- Electroencephalography (EEG): EEGs record the brain’s electrical activity.
- 3-D MR spectroscopy: This tool measures biochemical changes in the brain.
- High-field functional MRI: This specialized MRI provides a detailed picture of brain anatomy and regional activity.
- Genetic tumor typing: Our center is one of few in the country that can analyze a tumor’s DNA and use this information to tailor specific treatments . Learn more about our brain tumor typing and brain tumor bank or about our precision medicine to treat cancer.
- Neuropsychological assessments and speech-language evaluations: We assess how the tumor may affect your cognitive processes and behaviors. Our speech-language evaluations include Wada studies, which map memory and speech.
After your brain tumor diagnosis
Following your brain tumor diagnosis, our multidisciplinary tumor board reviews your case. This group brings together experts from multiple medical specialties to analyze imaging and other test results.
Together, our board crafts personalized treatment recommendations based on your needs and the specifics of the tumor, including its genetic makeup. Your brain tumor treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and/or other medications. You may also be eligible for a brain cancer clinical trial.