Language Function in Patients With Brain Tumors

Reorganization of Language Function in Patients With Brain Tumors

The purpose of this study is to use an imaging method called functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in patients who have a tumor near an area of the brain that is believed to control language. The fMRI is a new kind of imaging that uses a strong magnetic field to look at functioning brain tissue. This kind of imaging will be used to study the effect of the brain tumor on your speech.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patient in whom a tumor invades or is directly adjacent to the expected location of one of the language centers.
• At least 18 years of age
• English as first language

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with high grade tumors
• History of significant psychiatric condition (e.g. schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, significant dementia),
• History of the following neurological conditions: CVA, demyelinating conditions, cerebral palsy, Alzheimer's disease.
• History of significant claustrophobic reactions.
• Pregnancy
• Standard contraindications to MR examinations (e.g. implanted stimulator)
• Patients, who were treated prior to our first scan, will not be eligible to participate in this study