A pathologist will examine a patient’s biopsy sample to determine the exact type of tumor, whether the tumor is benign or malignant and how serious it is (its grade).
Brain tumor grading system:
(World Health Organization grading system) | |
Grade I tumor |
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Grade II tumor |
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Grade III tumor |
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Grade IV tumor |
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A changing diagnosis
The grade of a brain tumor might change. Reasons for this include:
- Brain tumors sometimes change (usually to a higher grade)
- The biopsy sample might not represent the entire tumor
A change from a low-grade tumor to a high-grade tumor happens more often in adults than in children.
Making the diagnosis without a biopsy
If doctors cannot perform a biopsy, they will determine a treatment plan on test results.
To request a consultation or appointment, call 410-955-6406.