Brain tumour diagnosis by computerized tomography

Computerized tomography is an enormous advance in the diagnosis of brain tumours: 1) Brain tumours can be detected more frequently, earlier, and with less danger than with conventional methods. In 95% of all cases, the growing tumour can be detected directly or indirectly by computerized tomography. 2) The tumour is accurately localized, so that the indication for surgery and prognosis is directly improved 3) In most cases, tumour and brain oedemas can be distinguished, and local and general displacements of brain matter can be directly recognized. 4) In most cases, the nature of the growing and displacing process can be determined before surgery, usually by a combined diagnoses with angiography. The further development of the basic concept of computerized tomography will go beyond the 3rd generation equipment to positron emission tomography, which will enable also metabolic investigations of the central nervous system. (orig./MG)