Brain tumor classification and diagnostic imaging procedures form the basis for management by all health care providers. Brain tumor classification establishment is through a combination of several screening procedures. Generally, brain tumors classification is either primary or metastatic. Besides, brain tumors can be either benign or malignant. Diagnostic imaging procedures commonly used include computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography scans. To note, reaching the decision to carry out these procedures is after assessing brain tumors’ presentations. These include, among others, signs and symptoms of severe headache, convulsions, confusion, or paralysis. Often, these symptoms vary depending on the location of the brain tumor.
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BRAIN TUMOR CLASSIFICATION AND TYPES
Determining the type of and the tissue involved, forms the basis for brain tumor classification. First, benign tumors include chordomas, gangliocytoma, gliomas, and meningioma affecting the skull base, nerve ganglia, and meninges, respectively. Moreover, pituitary adenomas, gliomas from glial cells, and craniopharyngiomas affecting a portion of the pituitary gland are benign. Otherwise, malignant brain tumors include astrocytoma from astrocytes, oligodendrogliomas from oligo-dendrites, and medulloblastoma arising from the cerebellum. Possibly, diagnostic imaging procedures target affected parts as suggested by history and physical examination of the patient. Usually, the presentation of brain tumors depends on the part affected. For instance, those that affect the pituitary gland cause imbalances of hormones secreted by the gland.
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DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING PROCEDURES OF BRAIN TUMORS
Diagnostic imaging procedures use radiations with specific wavelengths and produce pictures. Notably, brain tumor classification is established through the assessment of features specific to each tumor. The diagnostic imaging procedures help in identifying those key features. These procedures include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and Positron electron tomography (PET) scans. Often, a magnetic resonance imaging scan is used in evaluating brain tumors since it gives more information. Besides, it has specialized components, including perfusion MRI and magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Routinely, during a MRI procedure, a contrast medium is injected intravenously. Therefore, imaging procedures confirm the presence of brain tumors and establishing a correct diagnosis. However, Positron emission tomography is not common since it does not create images of brain tumors.
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