Cancer Diagnosis

Clinical Examination & Imaging Investigations

1. First Examination
   Medical History and Physical Examination: To find any risk factors or symptoms suggestive of cancer, a comprehensive medical history is frequently the first step in the diagnosis procedure. During a physical examination, tumours, anomalies, or other possible cancerous indications may be found.
2. Imaging Investigations
   X-rays: Helpful in identifying anomalies in some organs and bones.
   Computed tomography, or CT scans, offer precise cross-sectional images of the body that are helpful in identifying tumours and establishing their exact position.
   Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, uses magnetic fields to provide detailed images that are especially helpful for soft tissues, the brain, and the spinal cord.
   Ultrasound: This method of creating images by using sound waves is frequently used to guide biopsies and examine soft tissues.
   PET scans, or Positron Emission Tomography, can reveal malignant cells throughout the body by detecting metabolic activity.

Histopathology Tests

3. Assessments in the laboratory.
   Blood tests: Are able to identify compounds known as tumour markers, which are frequently produced by cancer cells or by the body as a reaction to cancer.
   Tests on urine and other bodily fluids can occasionally identify anomalies linked to cancer.
4. Biopsy Needle Biopsy: A little tissue sample is taken from the suspicious location using a needle.
   Surgical Biopsy: This procedure involves removing a suspicious mass or tumour entirely or in part by surgery.
   Endoscopic Biopsy: Samples of tissue are taken from inside the body, such as the lungs or digestive tract, using an endoscope.
5. Assessment by Pathologists
   Under a microscope, the biopsy sample is examined in histopathology to identify cancer cells and ascertain the kind and grade of the cancer.
   Cytology: Usually used to study the structure and function of cells

Genetic tests and Molecular tests

6. Genetic and Molecular Investigation
   Genetic testing: Finds particular genetic changes or mutations that are frequently linked to particular cancer types.
   Molecular profiling: Analyses cancer cells’ genetic and molecular characteristics to inform targeted therapy and treatment choices.