What is an MRI test?
Neuroimaging studies are the initial diagnostic tests that people suspected of having ependymoma undergo. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the test of choice because it shows better anatomic and tumor detail than computed tomography (CT scans).
Patients typically do not need other radiologic tests because ependymoma tumors do not tend to spread outside of the central nervous system (CNS). Sometimes a lumbar puncture or spinal tap is necessary if there is concern that the tumor has spread into the cerebrospinal fluid, which can be tested for the presence of tumor cells.
What does an MRI test involve?
Three different views are typically taken of the head, neck and/or spine for a brain tumor diagnosis. The patient must lie still inside the MRI machine for roughly an hour, and some pediatric patients may require sedation. After the images are taken, they are digitally transmitted to the medical provider for analysis.
What types of images does an MRI take?
MRIs use three different views to gain the best understanding of a tumor’s location and position to other neuro-anatomy. The three types of images an MRI takes include:
- Sagittal – this is a vertical plane passing through the standing body from front to back
- Coronal – this is a vertical plane from head to foot that is parallel to the shoulders
- Axial – this is a straight line passing through a spherical body between two poles and that the body may revolve around