Only a biopsy will tell the doc exactly what the tumor is made up of. Taking a tiny sample of tissue directly from the tumor will give much more info than any kind of scan which is pretty much an enhanced photo.

Since Im not a medical professional, my understanding is very limited about all the different scans. From what I know, a CT is very quick pic and works best for bones while MRIs are best for muscles (soft tissue). MRIs take much longer (around 45-50 minutes) than CTs and may have contrast (dye) added for even greater clarity.

Hopefully whatever you have going on is not cancerous! Please let us know how you make out. Good luck!!!

Christine
SCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44
2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07
-65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr
Clear PET 1/08
4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I
surg 4/16/08 clr marg
215 HBO dives
3/09 teeth out, trismus
7/2/09 recur, Stg IV
8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy
3wks medicly inducd coma
2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit
PICC line IV antibx 8 mo
10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg
OC 3x in 3 years
very happy to be alive smile