Neurological cancers affect the brain and spine. There are many types of brain and spinal cord tumors. The tumors may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer), but most tumors require treatment so that your brain or spine will continue to function as normally as possible. 

How is a brain tumor or cancer of the spine diagnosed?

Findings from a physical examination and review of your medical history will probably suggest to your physician that you have a problem with the brain, brain stem, or spine.

In most cases, you will need to have a CT scan or MRI of the brain or spine.

If your scans indicate the presence of a brain tumor, the next step in diagnosis is confirmation that you have a cancer. A biopsy is taken to identify the type of tumor.