There are many different types of cancer, so there is no single test that can detect all of them. Your doctor will likely use other methods to screen for cancer, including physical exams, blood tests, imaging tests, and biopsies. Physical exams can help your doctor look for signs of cancer, such as unusual skin spots, lumps in the breast or testicles, or a swelling where you usually would not expect one. When it comes to cancer screening Deerfield Beach, blood tests are typically used to look for markers that may indicate the presence of the disease.
Some indicators include high levels of certain substances produced by cancer cells or abnormal proteins. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans, can create pictures of the inside of your body to help look for signs of cancer. Biopsies involve taking a small sample of tissue from the suspicious area so that it can be examined for cancer cells. Your doctor may recommend combining these methods to get the most accurate results.
Below find a breakdown of the tests that help to detect cancer:
Blood tests
A blood test is usually the first step in diagnosing cancer. The most common blood tests used to screen for cancer are complete blood count (CBC) and blood chemistry tests. CBC measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in your blood. Blood chemistry tests measure levels of certain substances produced by the body and abnormal proteins.
Imaging tests
Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans, are used to create pictures of the inside of your body. These tests can help your doctor look for tumors and other abnormalities that may indicate cancer.
X-rays use high-energy waves to create images of the inside of your body. CT scans take multiple X-rays from different angles and create a more detailed image. MRI scans use radio waves and strong magnets to create images of the inside of your body. PET scans use small amounts of radioactive material to create images of the inside of your body.
Biopsies
Biopsies involve taking a small tissue sample from an area that looks suspicious on an imaging test, such as an X-ray or CT scan. The tissue is then examined under a microscope to look for cancer cells. A biopsy is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis of cancer.
Other tests
Depending on your symptoms and the type of cancer your doctor suspects you have, you may also need to undergo other tests, such as a urine test or stool test. These tests can help rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
Taking these tests early has significant benefits, namely:
- Blood tests can help to detect cancer early when it is most treatable.
- Imaging tests can often find tumors that are too small to be detected by physical exam.
- Biopsies can confirm a cancer diagnosis and help determine the best treatment plan.
Early detection is key to increasing the chances of successful treatment. Cancer screening is important because it can help find cancer early when it is most likely to be curable. If you are concerned about your cancer risk or think that you may be showing symptoms, talk to your doctor at Life Imaging Fla right away. They will be able to recommend appropriate screening tests and help you address any concerns you may have.
