- Biopsy -- During a biopsy, a sample of cells or tissue is removed surgically and examined by a pathologist to find out if cancer cells are present, and what types of cancer cells they are.
- Blood test -- Blood tests are obtained for a number of reasons. Blood may be drawn to measure white cell levels, which, if low, indicate an increased risk for infection. Other blood tests, including those that measure red cells and platelets, may indicate the need for a blood transfusion, if levels are low. Several routine blood tests allow doctors to monitor the health of different body organs, especially during treatment.
- Bone scan -- Bone scans are used to determine whether tumor cells have spread to the bone. A radioactive dye is injected into a vein and rapidly absorbed by abnormal bone tissue. One totwo hours later, the body is scanned using a gamma camera to check for the presence of tumor.
- Bone marrow aspiration and/or biopsy -- During a biopsy or aspiration, a small amount of bone marrow is removed typically through the hip bone. A biopsy removes solid bone marrow tissue, whereas a bone marrow aspiration removes the liquid part of the marrow. Both the aspirate and the biopsy are tested for the presence of cancer cells.
- CT scan -- Sophisticated x-ray machines, such as those used in computed axial tomography (CT, or CAT) scans, can produce detailed images of organs, tissues, and other substances in the body. A CT scan is often used to determine the presence, location, size, and shape of a tumor. The images produced by a CT scan are particularly useful prior to surgery. Once a patient has had a CT scan, it is common to continue using a CT scan for further monitoring.
- Lumbar puncture -- During a lumbar puncture (also known as a spinal tap), fluid is removed from the lower part of the spinal column to look for the presence of tumor cells.
- MRI scan -- An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is used to determine the presence, location, size, and shape of a tumor. It is particularly useful for scanning the brain and spinal cord, but it may also be used for other purposes. Once a patient has had an MRI scan, it is common to continue using an MRI scan for further monitoring. Unlike conventional x-rays and CT scans, MRI does not use radiation.
- PET scan -- A PET (positron emission tomography) scan is sometimes performed together with CT scans to determine with greater precision the presence, location, size, and shape of a tumor. During a PET scan, a radioactive dye is injected into a vein, and within hours the body is scanned.
Last Updated: Jun. 10, 2009
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