Tectal gliomas

How is a tectal glioma diagnosed?

Diagnostic procedures for tectal glioma may include:

• physical examination- the child may demonstrate evidence of increased pressure in the brain
• computerized tomography scan (also called a CT or CAT scan) - a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of your child’s body. CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays. For tectal glioma, a CT scan of the brain is usually done.
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)- a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body. For tectal glioma, MRIs of the brain and spine are usually done.
• biopsy- a tissue sample from the tumor taken through a needle during a simple surgical procedure to confirm the diagnosis