Diagnosis

See your GP if you develop any of the symptoms of a benign (non-cancerous) brain tumour, such as a new, persistent headache.

They'll examine you, ask about your symptoms, and may also carry out a simple neurological examination.

If they suspect you may have a tumour or aren't sure what's causing your symptoms, they may refer you to a brain and nerve specialist (a neurologist) for further investigation.

Neurological examination

Your GP or neurologist may test your nervous system to check for problems associated with a brain tumour.

This may involve testing your:

• arm and leg strength
• reflexes, such as your knee-jerk reflex
• hearing and vision
• skin sensitivity
• balance and co-ordination
• memory and mental agility using simple questions or arithmetic

Further tests

Other tests you may have to help diagnose a brain tumour include:

• a CT scan – where X-rays are used to build a detailed image of your brain
• an MRI scan – where a detailed image of your brain is produced using a strong magnetic field  
• an electroencephalogram (EEG) – electrodes are attached to your scalp to record your brain activity and detect any abnormalities if it's suspected you're having epileptic fits 

If a tumour is suspected, a biopsy may be carried out to establish the type of tumour and the most effective treatment.

Under anaesthetic, a small hole is made in the skull and a very fine needle is used to take a sample of tumour tissue.

You may need to stay in hospital for a few days after having a biopsy, although sometimes it's carried out as a day case and you may be able to go home on the same day.

Page last reviewed: Mon Jun 2020 Next review due: Wed Feb 2020