How Can Cancer Be Detected? The Diagnosis Process Patients Need to Know!

Cancer is a broad term, encompassing various conditions. Therefore, the diagnosis process may vary according to the specific type of cancer. Understanding the diagnosis process is crucial for every patient.

 

What are the Early Symptoms of Cancer?

Cancer can form in any part of the body, and its symptoms depend on the location, size of the tumor, and how far it has spread.

• Physical Signs: Some patients may feel a lump or mass.

• Asymptomatic Cases: There are also cases where patients experience no symptoms and are only diagnosed at a later stage.

• Routine Detection: Cancer is often detected through routine screening tests like colonoscopies or mammograms, or sometimes accidentally during examinations for other diseases.

 

Cancer Diagnostic Screenings

When a doctor suspects cancer, they will perform a series of diagnostic tests to rule out other diseases and ensure an accurate diagnosis. These tests include:

1. Laboratory Tests

These tests involve checking the levels of specific chemicals in the blood, urine, and other body fluids.

• Purpose: To detect levels of abnormal substances or components that could indicate cancer, such as checking the number of abnormal white blood cells in blood tests for leukemia.

2. Imaging Tests

Imaging tests produce pictures of internal organs to identify signs of cancer, the location, shape, and size of the tumor, and how far the disease has spread.

 

Imaging Test	Primary Function	Advantages & Notes
CT Scan (Computed Tomography)	Determines the location, shape, and size of the cancer.	Fast and painless (10-30 minutes).
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)	Produces high-resolution images; can determine metastasis (spread to other parts).	Uses magnets and radio waves. May have mild side effects like nausea or dizziness.
X-ray	Detects cancer in the bones, abdomen, and kidneys.	A common, fast, and cheaper procedure compared to CT/MRI. Example: Chest X-ray for lung cancer.
Ultrasound	Uses high-frequency sound waves. Used if X-ray results are unclear, or to distinguish between ovarian cysts and cancer.	Safe and has no serious side effects. Not as accurate as CT/MRI.

 

 

3. Endoscopy

This procedure uses an endoscope (a long, thin, flexible tube with a camera) inserted into the body to examine internal organs and detect tumors.

• Usage: Can be used for cancer diagnosis, surgical procedures, or to take tissue samples (biopsy).

4. Biopsy: The Main Confirmation

Biopsy is the only effective way to confirm a cancer diagnosis.

• Procedure: A sample of body tissue is taken and analyzed under a microscope. Samples can be taken from any part of the body, including the skin, stomach, liver, or lungs.

• Purpose:

  • To formally diagnose cancer.

  • To determine the stage and severity of the disease (e.g., the extent of organ damage).

 

A Cancer Diagnosis is Not the End

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be frightening, but medical technology has advanced, and many cancers can now be treated successfully.

Patients are encouraged to:

• Understand the diagnosis process and discuss any worries or concerns with their doctor.

• Offer full cooperation with the medical team.

• Seek additional support from family members and close friends.

Cancer is not a death sentence. Trust your doctor's recommendations and never give up hope.

Date of Input: 03/12/2025 | Updated: 03/12/2025 | fatini