There are more than 120 different types of brain tumours, according to the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada. Brain tumours occur when abnormal cells grow within or around the structure of the brain. Some are malignant and fast-growing, while others are slow-growing and benign (non-cancerous).
Almost two thirds of all brain tumours are benign. The most common type of malignant (cancerous) brain tumour is glioblastoma, which originates in the glial (supportive) tissue.
After a physical exam, medical imaging is often the next step in diagnosing a tumour. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to provide very clear images of the brain. It’s the preferred way to diagnose a brain tumour because of the great detail MRI can provide. During this procedure, a special dye called contrast maybe be injected to help enhance the area of concern.
Brain tumours can present with different symptoms, depending on where in the brain they are located. Some people may not have any symptoms, while others may have symptoms that worsen over time. Still others may feel perfectly fine then experience a sudden onset of symptoms, like a seizure. Below are common symptoms, which could be signs of a brain tumour (malignant or benign):
Most cancers are the result of many risk factors, but just because you have a risk factor doesn’t mean you will develop a tumour or cancer. Plus, cancer can develop in people without risk factors.
Common risk factors for brain and spinal cord tumours often depend on the type of cancer. Some are more common in children while others are more common in older adults. Men are more likely to develop most types of brain and spinal tumours, but a few, such as meningiomas, are more common in women.
Below are the most common evidence-based factors that can increase your risk for brain and spinal cord tumours:
Treatment decisions depend on the type of brain tumour and can take time. These decisions will be based on the type, size, grade, and location of the tumour, and your age and general health. However, surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are the standard treatments for primary malignant brain tumours.
To determine which imaging type is appropriate for your circumstances, a health care practitioner will review the risks and benefits associated with each type of imaging and determine whether MRI will provide the most valuable information.
MRI exams are available in hospitals and covered under the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan, but they can also be performed as private pay exams which complement the public health care system.
In Saskatchewan, Mayfair Diagnostics provides MRIs as publicly funded, community-based services under contract with the Saskatchewan Health Authority and as a private pay exams. They are offered at our Saskatoon and Regina locations.
In Alberta, Mayfair provides both 1.5T and 3T MRI services. These private pay exams are offered at our Mayfair Place location and are not covered by Alberta Health Care.
Whether public or private, medical imaging must be requested by a health care practitioner who will provide a requisition. Mayfair Diagnostics will schedule your exam and provide you with detailed information to prepare for it. Once your exam is completed, your images will be reviewed by a specialized radiologist who will compile a report that is sent to your doctor.
Mayfair Diagnostics is owned and operated by over 60 radiologists who are sub-specialty trained, including neuroradiology specializations. This guarantees an expert opinion of your imaging. For more information about what happens during these exams, visit our services page.
American Society of Clinic Oncology (2021) “Brain Tumor: Diagnosis.” www.cancer.net. Accessed June 21, 2022.
Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada (2022) “Facts About Brain Tumours.” www.braintumour.ca. Accessed June 21, 2022.
Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada (2022) “Treatment.” www.braintumour.ca. Accessed June 21, 2022.
Canadian Cancer Society (2022) “Risks for brain and spinal cord tumours.” www.cancer.ca. Accessed June 21, 2022.
Markman, M. (2022) “Brain cancer types.” www.cancercenter.com. Cancer Treatment Centers of America. Accessed June 21, 2022.
Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.
Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.
Diagnostic Imaging Assistants (DIAs) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.
Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.
Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.
Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.
Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care. They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.
We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:
Our core values shape the way we work with patients, partners, and fellow employees. And, more than anything else, they’re what set Mayfair apart. In everything we do, this is what we strive for:
EXCELLENCE
We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.
CURIOSITY
We innovate in everything, from services to processes. We believe meaningful change and effective problem solving come only by looking at challenges and opportunities from new angles and by exercising our creativity and curiosity.
PASSION
We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.
COLLABORATION
Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.
SERVICE
We take pride in delivering exceptional service every day. We listen to every request with an open mind, always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond to create memorable, personalized experiences. We take responsibility to answer our referrers’ and patients’ requests and respect their time by always responding with a sense of urgency.
Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.
Operating clinics in Calgary and surrounding areas, Regina, and Saskatoon, our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff collaborate seamlessly to deliver high quality patient care. Working here is more than just a job; it’s a strong step towards your future.
OUR TEAMS
We are a dedicated group of professionals who combine skill with compassion to deliver attentive care to our patients. As a reliable partner in their health care journey, we provide high-quality imaging that assists patients, physicians, and other providers in making informed health decisions. Our work goes beyond imaging; it’s about fostering relationships and positively impacting everyone we serve.
OUR VISION
We envision a world where every person has clarity about their health. We innovate and welcome change, promoting leadership and creativity through safe risk-taking. We share best practices, earn peer recognition for our work, and engage top talent to reach our goals.
We strive to be thought leaders and encourage creativity by providing a safe place for calculated risk taking.
We share best practices across our operations and are recognized by our peers for our work. We engage the best to help propel us forward in achieving our goals.
