The evaluation of an astrocytoma begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Some people with astrocytomas have normal physical examinations. Others may have physical findings that identify the specific location of the tumor in the brain.

Physical findings in those with astrocytoma may include:

• Weakness on one side of the body:
• Arm weakness (unilateral)
• Leg weakness (unilateral)
• Arm and leg weakness (unilateral)
• Numbness on one side of the body:
• Arm numbness (unilateral)
• Leg numbness (unilateral)
• Arm and leg numbness (unilateral)
• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty walking
• Difficulty with balance
• Difficulty speaking
• Facial weakness:
• Facial drooping
• Loss of coordination
• Memory loss
• Confusion
• Vision changes:
• Double vision

The diagnosis of an astrocytoma must be confirmed with testing.

Tests for astrocytoma may include:

• CT scanning of the brain
• MRI scan of the brain
• SPECT scanning:
• A newer method that may provide earlier detection of stroke in some cases
• PET scanning:
• Detects levels of brain activity
• Blood clotting studies
• Blood electrolytes and glucose
• Pulse oximetry
• Brain biopsy