A thorough evaluation is the first step in designing the best treatment plan. Your examination may include:

Computed Tomography   Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI Spectroscopy MR perfusion Functional MRI Diffusion Tensor Imaging   Positron emission tomography (PET)

Your doctor may also ask for other tests, including:

Angiogram   Biopsy   Myelogram   Skull x-ray   Spinal tap

Biopsy The removal of tissue to look for tumor cells is called a biopsy. A pathologist looks at the cells under a microscope to check for abnormal cells. A biopsy can show cancer, tissue changes that may lead to cancer, and other conditions. A biopsy is the only sure way to diagnose a brain tumor.