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X-Rays And Biopsy: Tests To Confirm Your Headache |
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X-Rays
X-rays are a form of
electromagnetic radiation blocked by dense structures like bones and
partially blocked by muscles and tissues. These are made to pass
through the body and the results are obtained on a sensitive film.
These have been used since a long time as an imaging procedure and
form the basis for more and newer forms of diagnostic tests like CT
scan, MRI, PET scan and mammography.
X-rays
are a popular test as they are absolutely pain-free. The patient may
sometimes be asked to assume uncomfortable positions to get x-rays
from multiple angles but that is just about the only discomfort
faced. The patient is required to remove all jewelry and clothing and
instead wear a hospital gown provided by the radiology department.
However, if the x-ray being conducted is of exposed parts of the body
like the head, then only jewelry or any other adornment worn is asked
to be removed.
Do inform the radiologist beforehand if, you
are pregnant or using an intrauterine device or any other form of
birth control.
Biopsy
A biopsy or a tissue sampling
is performed when there is a possibility of the person having a brain
tumor. It is the surest way to diagnose a brain tumor. This is
necessary as it points towards the presence (or absence) of a
cancer.
In this procedure, a part of the tissue is removed
with the help of a needle and examined under the microscope for the
presence of abnormal cells.The biopsy may be
performed in three ways:-
Needle biopsy:
Needle biopsy is when a small incision is
made in the skull and a part of the tumor is removed with a
needle.
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