benign ependymoma

Common Signs and Symptoms of Benign Ependymoma

Benign ependymomas are slow-growing tumors that can occur in the brain or spinal cord. The symptoms and signs of benign ependymoma may vary depending on the location and size of the tumor, but here are some common ones:

• Headaches: A headache is one of the most common symptoms of benign ependymoma, especially if the tumor is located in the brain (Citations: [8], [12])
• Nausea and Vomiting: Some people may experience nausea and vomiting due to increased intracranial pressure or blockage of cerebrospinal fluid (Citations: [2], [7])
• Dizziness and Balance Problems: Benign ependymoma can cause dizziness, balance problems, or loss of coordination, especially if the tumor is located in the spinal cord (Citations: [9], [10])
• Vision Problems: In some cases, benign ependymoma may cause vision problems, such as blurred vision, double vision, or changes in visual acuity (Citations: [5], [6])

It's essential to note that these symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions, and only a proper medical diagnosis by a healthcare professional can confirm the presence of benign ependymoma.

References

• [2] Symptoms may be sudden or they may start slowly and get worse over time.
• [5] What are the symptoms of ependymoma? · Headache · Nausea and vomiting · Pain that wakes you up · Dizziness and balance problems · Eye problems, such as double or ...
• [7] Aug 20, 2024 — What Are the Symptoms of an Ependymoma? · Headaches · Nausea · Vomiting · Dizziness.
• [8] Symptoms of ependymomas depend on whether the tumour is in the brain or the spinal cord. Common symptoms include headaches and feeling or being sick.
• [9] Ependymoma symptoms include back pain, bowel or bladder problems, dizziness and balance problems, vision problems, headache, nausea and vomiting, trouble walking, and weakness or numbness in an arm or leg.
• [10] The symptoms and signs of ependymoma depend on the grade of the tumor and where it is located. Any tumor that blocks the flow of cerebral spinal fluid can cause symptoms. Symptoms may be sudden or may be noticed slowly and get worse over time.An ependymoma found in the brain may lead to increased intracranial pressure, which can cause the following symptoms:

Diagnosing Benign Ependymoma: A Comprehensive Overview

Benign ependymoma, a rare type of brain tumor, can be challenging to diagnose due to its rarity in adults and similarity to other types of tumors. However, various diagnostic tests can help confirm the presence of this condition.

• Neurological Exam: A thorough neurological exam is essential in diagnosing benign ependymoma. This involves checking vision, hearing, balance, coordination, strength, and reflexes.
• Imaging Tests: Imaging studies are crucial in identifying brain tumors, including benign ependymoma. These tests include:
  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI is the gold standard imaging study for ependymoma. It uses large magnets and a computer to create detailed images of the inside of your body.
  • Contrast-Enhanced MRI: This type of MRI uses a contrast dye to help find any cancerous cells, making it more effective in diagnosing benign ependymoma.

Other Diagnostic Tests

In addition to imaging tests, other diagnostic procedures may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and provide details about the tumor. These include:

• Biopsy: A biopsy is required to confirm the diagnosis of benign ependymoma. This involves removing a piece of tumor tissue during surgery.
• Physical Exam: A physical exam by a healthcare professional can help identify any potential neurologic problems.

Multidisciplinary Approach

Diagnosing benign ependymoma often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving various healthcare providers, including:

• Neurologists: Neurologists play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing brain tumors.
• Neurosurgeons: Neurosurgeons may be involved in surgical procedures to remove the tumor.

References

1. [5] Tests and procedures used to diagnose ependymoma include: Neurological exam. During a neurological exam, a healthcare professional checks vision, hearing, balance, coordination, strength and reflexes.
2. [7] Mar 9, 2023 — Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain or spine is the gold standard imaging study for ependymoma.
3. [8] Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) testing will be ordered. It'll probably include the use of a contrast dye to help find any cancerous cells because cancer cells ...
4. [9] by EL Yuh · 2009 · Cited by 267 — Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the primary imaging modality used for the assessment of both intracranial and spinal ependymoma.
5. [13] A common diagnostic test that identifies potential neurologic problems is a magnetic resonance image or MRI. What is an MRI test? An MRI is typically the preferred test for people who may have a brain or spinal cord tumor.