Navigating Brain Tumour Diagnosis: Innovations and Strategies Symposium
By Annet Nakkazi, Cancer Sciences PhD student and Science Communication Ambassador
On 2nd July 2025, leading experts in neuro-oncology gathered at the Pendulum Hotel in Manchester for the second annual Navigating Brain Tumour Diagnosis Symposium.
Hosted by Professor Petra Hamerlik, Chair of Translational Neuro-Oncology at The University of Manchester, the event spotlighted cutting-edge diagnostic technologies, patient experiences, and collaborative strategies to improve early detection of brain tumours.
Why the symposium matters
In the UK, brain tumour diagnosis remains alarmingly delayed. Patients typically visit their GP five times before receiving a diagnosis, and 62% are diagnosed during emergency visits (Herbert et al., 2019). These delays often result in larger, harder-to-treat tumours and increased cognitive complications.
The symposium was created to address this challenge – bringing together researchers, clinicians, and patients to share innovations, foster collaboration, and push for earlier, more accurate diagnosis.
Professor Petra Hamerlik introducing a guest speaker
Audience members listening to a guest speaker present their research
Keynote highlights
Dr. Matthew Baker – Dxcover Ltd.
Presented a breakthrough in infrared spectroscopy, enabling brain tumour detection from a single blood sample within 24 hours. This rapid test could revolutionise primary care triage and reduce diagnostic waiting times.
Dr. Stavros Stivaros – Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital
Explored the role of MRI in paediatric neuro-oncology, highlighting the need for multiparametric imaging to improve scan quality and speed, especially given the high patient volume.
Dr. Gelareh Zadeh – Mayo Clinic
Discussed the importance of epigenetic profiling, such as methylation patterns, in classifying and monitoring brain tumours. She emphasised the need for standardised biomarkers in liquid biopsies.
Dr. Houtan Noushmehr – Henry Ford Health & Michigan State University
Addressed the challenge of pseudoprogression – a condition mimicking tumour recurrence in up to 15% of glioma patients. He advocated for using epigenetic markers to guide treatment decisions before imaging results are available.
A keynote presentation by Dr. Stavros Stivaros on the use of brain tumour scanners
Dr. Stavros Stivaros sharing insights on using MRI in detecting brain tumours in children
Innovations in Diagnostics
The symposium showcased a range of emerging diagnostic tools and strategies, including:
- Liquid biopsies using plasma, tears, proteins, DNA/methylation and metabolites
- Nano-omics for prognostic biomarker discovery
- AI-powered decision support systems like MIROR for paediatric neuro-oncology
These technologies aim to make diagnosis faster, less invasive, and more precise.
Patient perspectives
One of the most impactful sessions featured brain cancer survivors and patients sharing their diagnostic journeys. Many described long waits for MRI results and the emotional toll of uncertainty.
A key question emerged during the session:
“If GPs see patients multiple times before diagnosis, why aren’t referrals made earlier?”
This question sparked a vital discussion. Dr. Rebecca Leon, a GP specialising in oncology, explained that brain tumour symptoms often mimic other conditions, making early detection difficult. While GPs now have markers for several cancers (e.g., prostate, ovarian), no such markers exist for brain tumours. Additionally, the UK currently lacks a screening programme for brain tumours, though the NHS promotes early diagnosis through public and professional education.
Final thoughts
Early diagnosis of brain tumours is critical – not only for improving survival rates but also for preserving cognitive function and quality of life. The symposium underscored the urgent need to:
- Invest in liquid biopsy research and in-vivo imaging technologies
- Develop standardised diagnostic tools
- Strengthen collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and patients
As Professor Hamerlik emphasised, patients must be involved at every stage – from detection and diagnosis to treatment and monitoring. Only through such inclusive, interdisciplinary efforts can we truly transform the future of brain tumour care.
