The aim of oncological diagnostics is to determine precisely the type of cancer and its stage. On the basis of this information, the doctor decides how the patient will be treated. Oncological diagnostics should take as little time as possible. It seems that most cancers can be diagnosed within 1–2 weeks. Unfortunately, in the current healthcare system, diagnostics stretch over several weeks or months for far too many patients.
Oncological diagnostics follow a logical pathway. As an example, let us look at how they proceed in a person with a suspected stomach tumour.
- The first examination is gastroscopy, which tells us the location of the tumour, its size (in cm), its growth pattern and whether ulceration is present. During the examination, the doctor takes a biopsy of the tumour for histopathological examination. Various types of cancer occur in the stomach, and we need to know precisely which type we are dealing with. Patients with gastric cancer and those with gastric lymphoma are treated differently.
- The next stage is to determine the stage of the cancer, for which simple and readily available tests are used. A CT scan of the abdomen gives us information on the location of the tumour, infiltration of neighbouring organs and the presence of metastases to lymph nodes and internal organs. This examination should answer the question of whether the tumour is operable. A chest X-ray makes it possible to rule out lung metastases.
- Sometimes we also perform other tests. If the tumour is located in the gastric cardia, we also perform a CT scan of the chest. Because of the risk of ovarian metastases, women should have a gynaecological consultation. A bone scintigraphy is performed if spread to the bones is suspected.
To sum up, the end result of diagnostics is to determine the type of cancer and its stage in order to choose the optimal treatment.
It is therefore worth remembering to have a consultation before starting oncological treatment.
If you need help, book an appointment at the Oncology Clinic.