Cancer: Overview of Diagnostic Procedures

When symptoms suggest cancer, your physician may request/perform any of the following procedures to help positively diagnose it:

Other diagnostic procedures that may be requested include:

imaging tests, such as:
- x-ray
- computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) - a non-invasive procedure that takes cross-sectional images of the brain or other internal organs; to detect any abnormalities that may not show up on an ordinary x-ray. The CT scan may indicate enlarged lymph nodes - a possible sign of a spreading cancer or of an infection.
- radionuclide scan - an imaging scan in which a small amount of radioactive substance is injected into the vein. A machine measures levels of radioactivity in certain organs, thereby detecting any abnormal areas or tumors.
- ultrasound - an imaging technique that uses sound waves to produce an image on a monitor of the abdominal organs, such as the uterus, liver, and kidneys.
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - a non-invasive procedure that produces two-dimensional view of an internal organ or structure, especially the brain and spinal cord. The MRI may show abnormal nodules in bones or lymph nodes - a sign that cancer may be spreading.
endoscopy - use of a very flexible tube with a lens or camera (and a light on the end), which is connected to a computer screen, allowing the physician to see inside the hollow organs, such as the uterus. Biopsy samples can be taken through the tube.
laboratory tests to examine any/all of the following:
- blood
- urine
- other fluids
- tumor tissue
biopsy (to remove a sample of the suspicious tissue for examination in a laboratory by a pathologist)

Once the cancer is diagnosed, an evaluation will be made to determine the extent (stage) of the cancer.

NewYork-Presbyterian. The University Hospital of Columbia and Cornell.