There are many different tests that determine staging and/or evaluate baseline health.
Audiogram
An audiogram denotes the hearing threshold level regarded as the normal audiometric standard at that frequency.
Bone Marrow Aspiration
A bone marrow aspiration checks to make sure the blood cells found within the bone marrow (the liquid portion of the bone) are functioning properly and also checks for the presence of abnormal cells in the bone marrow. During a bone marrow aspiration a small amount of bone marrow is removed from the hip bone while the patient is under anesthesia.
Bone Scan
A bone scan identifies new areas of bone growth or breakdown. This test can also detect cancer that has metastasized to the bones and evaluate any damage to the bones. An injection is required three hours prior to the scan.
Chest X-Ray
A chest x-ray is used to identify masses in the upper chest (mediastinum) or lungs.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
A CT scan is an imaging technique that can help identify the size and location of a mass by providing physicians with a clear picture of the internal organs. Depending on the part of the body being imaged, patients are given either an oral contrast or an IV contrast in order to make the organs easier to see. In some cases, a contrast may not be required.
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram uses high-frequency sound waves to examine the structure and function of the heart.
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
This test measures the electrical signals that control the rhythm of the heartbeat.
Gallium Scan
A gallium scan is used to measure the activity of cancerous tumors. A small quantity of the radioactive substance gallium is injected into the body, and a scan is used to determine where the gallium is concentrated. Because some cancers are known to absorb greater amounts of gallium than normal tissues of the body (with the exception of the liver and spleen), physicians can track tumor activity and monitor the tumor for recurrence of cancer. A gallium injection is given 48 hours prior to the scan.
Lumbar Puncture
A lumbar puncture is used to evaluate the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) surrounding the spinal cord or brain. During this procedure, which requires anesthesia, samples of CSF are collected.
MIBG Scan
This scan is most commonly used for patients diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a rare pediatric cancer that develops in primitive nerve cells. These cancer cells take up a chemical called "meta-iodobenzylguanidine" (MIBG). An injection is required 24 hours prior to the scan.
Bone Marrow Biopsy
During a bone marrow biopsy, a small portion of marrow is removed from the back of the pelvis to determine whether malignant cells are present. This procedure is performed with anesthesia.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
An MRI provides information about the location and extent of the disease.
Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)
A pulmonary function test is performed to determine the baseline function of the lungs before treatment is given.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound uses ultrasonic waves to image an internal body structure.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
Prior to a PET scan, a radioactive substance called a tracer is injected into a vein. The tracer emits signals that are recorded during the scan as they travel through the body and collect in organs. These signals are converted into three-dimensional images of the organ in order to provide a clear view of any abnormality. The tracer is injected one hour prior to the scan.
