Diagnostic Tests

by | Feb 20, 2021 | Uncategorized

Diagnostic Tests

It can be said that there are various ways to diagnose cancer. As researchers learn more about the mechanisms of cancer, new diagnostic tools are constantly being developed and existing methods refined. If your primary care physician suspects cancer, he or she may order some tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests can either be conducted by your physician or by oncologists at the cancer centers. No matter who makes the diagnosis, a second opinion by a cancer expert is always strongly recommended.

Some types of cancer, particularly lymphomas, can be hard to classify, even for an expert. Accurate identification of cancer allows oncologists to choose the most effective treatment. The most common diagnostic methods include:

1) Biopsy

A small tissue sample is surgically removed and examined under a microscope for the presence of cancer cells. Depending on tumor location, some biopsies can be done on an outpatient basis with only local anesthesia. If the tumor is filled with fluid, a type of biopsy known as a fine needle aspiration is used. A long, thin needle is inserted directly into the suspicious area to draw out fluid samples for examination.

2) Endoscopy:

A flexible plastic tube with a tiny camera on the end is inserted into body cavities and organs, allowing the physician to view the suspicious area. There are many types of scopes, each designed to view particular areas of the body. For instance, a colonoscopy is used to detect growths inside the colon, and a laparoscope is used to examine the abdominal cavity.

3) Diagnostic imaging:

Several techniques are used to produce an internal picture of the body and its structures. Types of imaging methods include:

X-rays are the most common way doctors make pictures of the inside of the body. Specialists can spot abnormal areas that may indicate the presence of cancer. Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to determine if a suspicious lump is solid or fluid. These sound waves are transmitted into the body and converted into a computerized image. CAT scan (computerized axial tomography), uses radiographic beams to create detailed computerized pictures taken with a specialized X-ray machine. It is more precise than a standard X-ray, and provides a clearer image.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnetic field to create detailed computer images of the body’s soft tissue, large blood vessels and major organs. MRI is an accurate but expensive process, and patients must lie completely still during the procedure for best results. PET scan used to whether cancer has affected to any other organ in the body (metastasis) or to assess the response to the treatment in follow up.

4) Blood Tests:

Some tumors release substances called tumor markers, which can be detected in the blood. A blood test for prostate cancer determines the amount of prostate specific antigen (PSA). Recently, a blood test for ovarian cancer, known as CA-125, and CEA for colorectal cancer have become available. However, blood tests by themselves can be inconclusive, and other methods should be used in order to confirm the diagnosis.

About Dr.Sachinmarda

"Dr. Sachin Marda is one of the best top leading award-winning renowned oncologists in Hyderabad and in India. He has 14 years of experience and treated more than 11000 patients till date. He completed his MS general surgery from Mumbai University in 2005 with a Gold medal and MCH Surgical Oncology in Gujarat University in 2009 with a First rank. He is also trained in UK with MRCS and in NCCS Singapore. He offers ethical, affordable complete cancer treatment with a holistic approach. He is specialised in all types of cancer treatment with laparoscopic, and robotic surgery. He has an extraordinary team with excellent knowledge in chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted immunotherapy. His expertees in oral, stomach, breast. uterine, lung, prostate cancer"

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