The evaluation of a glioblastoma multiforme begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Early in the course of the disease, someone with glioblastoma multiforme may have no findings on physical examination. In others, physical findings may suggest the specific location of the tumor in the brain.

Physical findings in someone with glioblastoma multiforme 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 a glioblastoma multiforme must be confirmed with testing.

Tests that may be used to evaluate glioblastoma multiforme include:

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