Brain metastases may be diagnosed and evaluated using one or more of several different types of procedures. Your physician will decide which method will provide the best results for you.
- MRI – Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- CT – Computerized Tomography
- PET – Positron Emission Tomography Biopsy
MRI, or nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, provides three-dimensional views of an internal organ or structure, especially the brain and spinal cord. MRI uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to alter the natural alignment of hydrogen atoms within the body. Computers record the activity of the hydrogen atoms and translate that into images.
MRI offers increased-contrast resolution, enabling better visualization of soft tissues. Also, it allows for multiplanar imaging, as opposed to CT, which is usually only axial. Additionally, it provides highly detailed information without exposing the body to radiation. In many instances, it provides more useful images than CT scanning and ultrasound—particularly for the brain.
A CT scan uses X-rays to produce detailed pictures of structures inside the body. A CT scan is also called a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan. A CT scanner directs a series of X-ray pulses through the body. Each rotation of the CT gantry represents a “slice” of the organ or area being studied. The slices or pictures are recorded on a computer and can be saved for further study or printed out as photographs.
CT scanning can be used to obtain information about almost any body organ (such as the liver, pancreas, intestines, kidneys, adrenal glands, lungs, and heart), blood vessels, the abdominal cavity, bones and the spinal cord.
PET is a medical imaging technique that monitors metabolic or biochemical activity in the brain and other organs by tracking the movement and concentration of a radioactive tracer injected into the bloodstream. The technique uses special computerized imaging equipment and rings of detectors surrounding the patient to record gamma radiation produced when positrons (positively charged particles) emitted by the tracer collide with electrons.
PET scans are especially valuable in imaging the brain, as they show how a tissue or organ is functioning, rather than simply revealing the structure. PET scans are used in medicine to diagnose brain tumors and strokes by showing the blood flow through the brain. Areas of high metabolic activity indicate potential tumors.
Treatment options
