LATEST: U.S. Senator EDWARD 'TED' KENNEDY has been diagnosed with a brain tumour, after he suffered a seizure at the weekend.
The 76-year-old Senator - and last surviving brother to the late John F. Kennedy - has been undergoing tests to determine the cause of illness since he was hospitalised at Massachusetts General Hospital on Saturday (17May08).
Kennedy first fell ill at his family's nearby estate in Cape Cod. Initial reports incorrectly claimed Kennedy suffered a stroke.
A statement released on Tuesday (20May08) by doctors treating the politician reads, "Preliminary results from a biopsy conducted during his treatment identify the cause as a malignant glioma in the left parietal lobe."
Treatment for the tumour is expected to be a combination of radiation and chemotherapy.
His doctors add, "Decisions regarding the best course of treatment for Senator Kennedy will be determined after further testing and analysis.
"Senator Kennedy will remain at Massachusetts General Hospital for the next couple of days according to routine protocol. He remains in good spirits and full of energy."
Last year (Oct07), Kennedy underwent surgery to remove a blockage that doctors believed could cause a stroke. He has not suffered a seizure since his initial hospitalisation.
Kennedy has served in the Massachusetts Senate since 1982.
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