Common Tests Used To Diagnose Cancer

When an individual is screened for cancer or their physician feels their symptoms and medical history suggest the possibility of cancer, further testing is required to find cancer or rule cancer out as the underlying cause of their symptoms. A physical exam, personal medical history, and family medical history can tip off a physician to the possibility of cancer or an increased risk of cancer. Numerous blood tests may be used to search for abnormalities in the blood and bone marrow. Numerous methods of diagnostic imaging are utilized to help find a cancerous mass in a patient's organs and other body tissues. Some diagnostic imaging techniques require the use of contrast material or dye to provide a more thorough picture of the patient's organs. A procedure called a biopsy may also be used to determine if a mass in the body is cancerous.