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Common Tests Used for Cancer Detection

Common Tests Used for Cancer Detection

In this article, we will discuss the most common tests used for the detection of cancer. We will discuss the procedure of each test and the test available in Delhi.

What is Cancer?

Cancer is the condition when normal cells divide in an uncontrolled manner leading to tumours forming and disturbing the body's normal functioning. Normal cells are controlled by genes, when to divide and die, but any mutation can lead the cells to behave abnormally which leads to the condition of cancer.

Which Tests Are Used for the Diagnosis of Cancer?

Cancer diagnosis is one of the important stages in eradication and treatment of cancer. Early cancer detection is very important and gives hope of getting cured fully. There are different stages of cancer so diagnosis plays an important role in the survival rate of cancer patients. With the evolution of technology and medical science, different tests have evolved for the detection of cancer. The healthcare expert advises the test based on the patient's condition. 

Here is the List of Tests Used for the Diagnosis of Cancer.

PET-CT Scan Test (Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography)

PET Scan is the short form of positron emission tomography (PET) scan and a computed tomography (CT) scan is used to create the images of the abnormal area or area of interest for which the test is been carried out. A PET scan is used to diagnose the condition, plan treatment and monitor the effect of treatment at various stages of the disease.

Steps for PET-CT Scan Test:
  • Injecting radioactive material: Radioactive material (radioactive glucose) is injected into the blood. This glucose reaches to cells and gets consumed for energy. Cancer cells grow faster and show more metabolic activity than normal cells.
  • Imaging: The patient is laid on the table attached to the scanner, the table slides into the scanner and the images are taken from the patient for diagnosis purposes.
  • Analysis: Images created from the scanner will be analysed by the healthcare expert. Cells that consume glucose faster than normal show fast metabolic activity. This creates bright areas in the images, which helps to diagnose the abnormal areas in the patient.

CT Scan (Computed Tomography)

CT scan is the short form of computed tomography scan. This is a non-invasive test that uses motorized X-rays for the detection of abnormalities in the patient. This procedure creates cross-sectional images of the body and helps to diagnose, plan and effectiveness of the treatment. CT scans have different steps of the procedure.

Steps for CT Scan Test:
  • Giving Contrast: CT can be done with or without taking contrast depending on the condition of the patient. The contrast material is given to the patient and allowed to sit for about 1 hour till the contrast reaches to every part of the body. The contrast can be injected or swollen depending on the need. Contrast helps to get clear and high-resolution images, which helps in the easy and early detection of cancer.
  • Imaging: The patient is allowed to lie on the table, which is attached to the scanner. The table slides inside the scanner and images are captured. New CT scanners take helical and spiral images of the patient, which help to give a more detailed view of the patient and the tissues of concern.
  • Analysis of Images: Images produced in the CT scan will be analysed by the healthcare expert and diagnose the condition. On the basis of the results, the healthcare expert will advise the future course of action for the patient.

MRI Scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

MRI is the short form of magnetic resonance imaging scan. This is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that uses radiowaves and magnetics to create pictures in the inside of the body. This is one of the preferred tools for the diagnosis of different cancers. The scan is done in various steps and can be done with or without contrast. 

Steps for MRI Scan Test:
  • Giving Contrast: MRI can be done with or without contrast. The patient can be injected with contrast such as gadolinium and allowed to rest till the contrast reaches the body. Contrast material helps to generate good images which help to detect the abnormality early. 
  • Imaging: The patient is made to lie on the table attached to the MRI scanner and the table is slid into the scanner for the imaging process. The magnets make some noise, so the patient should not worry about the sound. Some patients are provided earbuds to avoid or reduce the noise of the scanner. Patients are also advised to avoid any type of movement because the movement can blur the testing image which affects the result.
  • Test Analysis: MRI test images will be analysed by the healthcare expert who will advise the future course of action on the basis of the test results.

Ultrasound (Ultrasonography or Sonography)

Ultrasound is an imaging technique used for the detection of abnormalities in the patient. Ultrasound is also known as ultrasonography or sonography, which uses sound waves for the detection of abnormalities in the body. Sound waves are produced by a transducer attached to the machine. Sound waves bounce back after hitting the object and help to create the images of the area. This procedure is used for the diagnosis of different health conditions but is most commonly used for the detection of pregnancy. The healthcare provider also applies the gel on the body before going for the procedure. This helps to move the transducer smoothly and sound waves enter more effectively without deviation. The ultrasound machine creates the images after the sound waves reflect. The healthcare expert will analyse the images and advise future courses of action.

Where to Go for a Cancer Test in Delhi?

Patients can visit Ganesh Diagnostic Centre for all types of imaging tests used to detect cancer. The Centre provides heavy discounts on all types of tests with quality results. Below is the link to the tests:

Conclusion

Cancer is the abnormal growth of cells which can lead to tumours. Cells are controlled by genes from birth till death, some mutations in the cell can lead the uncontrolled growth. Early detection of the disease can help to get early and effective treatment. There are various tests used for the detection of cancer like PET CT scan, CT scan, MRI scan, Ultrasound etc. Patients can choose Ganesh Diagnostic Centre for any type of test in Delhi. The Centre provides heavy discounts with quality tests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What is Cancer?

Cancer is the abnormal growth of cells which can lead to tumours. Cells are controlled by genes from birth till death, some mutations in the cell can lead the uncontrolled growth.

What are the Different Types of Cancer Tests?

The different types of cancer tests include PET-CT scan, CT scan, MRI scan and Ultrasound.

What are the Symptoms of Cancer?

The symptoms of the cancer include lumps, eating problem, breathing problem, pain, weight loss etc.

When to go for a Cancer Test?

A person can go for a cancer test when person feels the symptoms of cancer.

Where to go for a Cancer Test in Delhi?

Patients can visit Ganesh Diagnostic Centre for any type of cancer test.

What is the ICD-10 code for Cancer?

The ICD-10 code for cancer is C80.1.

How to download the Cancer Test Report Online?

Patients can visit Ganesh's diagnostic website or call at 011-47-444-444 / 011-47-333-333 to download cancer test reports online.