Small dark spot on head MRI

My 43 year old wife was recently sick with a virus (ran a 103.6 fever).  She was prescribed amoxicilin and felt better within 3-4 days.  Shortly after she began feeling better, she woke up one morning with a severe headache in her right temple and it hurt to open her jaw.  We went to the emergency room, they tested her vision, eye pressure, and had a CT scan.  All the tests were fine.  The ER doctor said all her symptons pointed towards temporal arteritis, but said it was unlikely, because of her age.  He put her on 60 mg of prednisone, and arranged to have her see her regular Dr.

We went to see her regular Dr. two days later, and said he couldn't believe it was temporal arteritis due to her age.  He reduced her prednisone to 40mg/day, and ordered MRI and MRA tests.  At this point, my wife was feeling better - the headache was gone.

A few days later, she had her MRI and MRA tests with contrast.  Her Dr. called back and said the MRA test was fine, but the MRI showed a "small dark spot" on the left side.  The spot was approx. 7mm large.  He said it could be anything, but did mention the term "glioma".  He said the spot could have been there for years, or could have been recent.  He said this spot had nothing to do with her right side temple pain, which was probably due to the initial virus.  He is weaning her off the prednisone, and said she needs a blood test 4-5 weeks after she finished the prednisone.  He also advised another MRI in approx. 90 days.

Now, obviously my wife is incredibly worried.  She hasn't slept, and after looking up glioma on the internet, she's even more worried.  These next 90 days are going to be extremely difficult.  Could there be a non-cancerous explanation for the spot?  Would you suggest she see a neurologist for an additional opinion?  Is the blood test and follow up MRI pretty standard?  I'm just looking for more information.  I appreciate your time.

[joer1bm]

I hope your wife is well! to let you know I have a 10mm mass on my right frontal lobe.I have had this for over 5 yrs.My nuerologist says it is a non specific mass and has nothing to do with my symptoms.If I were your wife I would definetely get in to a nuero doc.If it is something serious,The sooner the better for detection purposes.If nothing else,It will be ruled out as nothing serious and your wife will be able to get sleep at nite.In the mean time what she needs is support and guidance,You are doing a great job of supporting her by taking the time to find any info you can.Now she needs the guidance of a professional to ensure this is nothing to worry about.I recal that feeling like it was yesterday,It is a horrible feeling to hear that there is a spot or anything on your brain that is not suppose to be there.Remind her to stay as calm as possible and the power of intention is a very stong thing. Stay possotive and god bless.

[Doug49]

Thanks for your reply - you mentioned your symptoms - what are your symptoms?