Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Your Diagnosis

Here are questions to ask about your brain or spine tumor.

• 

  Why a Precise Diagnosis is Vital to Treat Brain and Spine Tumors

  NCI neuropathologist Dr. Kenneth Aldape is using the latest technologies to precisely diagnose rare brain and spine tumors. He shares his techniques and why they’re important to precision medicine.

  What is the exact type and grade of my tumor?
• How accurate is my diagnosis?
• Did you perform DNA or genetic testing or will you be? How long will this take?
• What is the location of my tumor?
• What is the size of my tumor?
• Can my tumor spread to other areas of the central nervous system (CNS)?
• Can my tumor spread outside of the CNS?
• What is the success rate for controlling this tumor?
• Will I need more tests before treatment begins? If so, which ones?
• Do you know what caused this tumor?
• Do I need to be concerned about my children’s risk for developing this tumor?
• Will I need a specialist(s) for my treatment? If so, who would you recommend?

We encourage you to print these questions and bring them with you to your appointment.