What imaging modalities are recommended for the diagnosis and assessment of glioblastoma multiforme in primary care?

Recommended imaging modalities for diagnosis and assessment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) in primary care:

• Offer standard structural MRI as the initial diagnostic test for suspected glioma, including GBM. This MRI should include T2 weighted, FLAIR, DWI series, and T1 pre- and post-contrast volume sequences, unless MRI is contraindicated.
• Refer patients with suspected glioma, including GBM, to a specialist multidisciplinary team at first radiological diagnosis for further management.
• Consider advanced MRI techniques such as MR perfusion and MR spectroscopy to assess tumour grade or transformation if standard MRI findings are unclear or suggest low-grade glioma.
• For ongoing assessment and follow-up, standard structural MRI is recommended to monitor for progression or recurrence, with advanced MRI techniques considered if standard imaging is inconclusive.

These imaging recommendations apply to primary care settings for initial suspicion and referral, with further detailed imaging and management conducted by specialist teams.

References: ¹