Diagnosis of Cancer
Diagnosis of cancer involves a series of steps to confirm the presence of abnormal cell growth and determine its type, location, and stage. A timely and accurate diagnosis of cancer is critical for choosing the most effective treatment plan and improving outcomes.
The process often begins with a visit to a GP or specialist due to symptoms or during a routine screening. Based on initial findings, doctors may order further tests.
Imaging tests are frequently the first step:
- X-rays may show tumours or abnormal shadows
- CT scans provide detailed cross-sectional images
- MRI scans are especially useful for soft tissue cancers
- Ultrasound can detect tumours in organs like the liver, kidneys, or ovaries
- PET scans highlight areas of active cell metabolism, often linked to cancer
Blood tests can reveal tumour markers or detect organ function abnormalities. Examples include PSA (for prostate cancer), CA-125 (for ovarian cancer), and AFP (for liver cancer).
Biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis. Doctors take a small tissue sample and examine it under a microscope to check for cancer cells and confirm the diagnosis. Doctors perform biopsies using different methods depending on where the tumour is located. These include needle biopsy, surgery, endoscopy, or skin scraping.
Endoscopy allows doctors to view internal areas like the colon, oesophagus, or lungs using a thin tube with a camera.
Diagnosis of Cancer
Genetic testing may be done on the tumour or the patient’s own DNA to understand mutations driving the cancer. This helps guide targeted therapies and assess familial risk.
Once diagnosed, staging determines how far the cancer has spread. This typically ranges from stage I (localised) to stage IV (metastatic). Additional scans, surgical assessments, or bone marrow biopsies may be used to complete staging.
A confirmed diagnosis of cancer enables the medical team to develop a personalised treatment plan based on tumour type, location, genetics, and patient preferences.
