Types of tests
You may have more than one type of test, depending on the part of the body being investigated. Here are some of the most commonly used investigations/tests.
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Biopsy: examination of a piece of body tissue that has been removed from the part of the body where cancer is suspected. This test is very important because it shows whether or not cancer is present. If it is, it helps determine what treatment might work best.
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Blood tests
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X-rays
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Scans, for example:
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CT scans: computed tomography scan, a technique for marking a cross-section image of the head or body, using a computer to assemble multiple X-ray images
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bone scans
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isotope scans: an imaging technique involving the injection of a very weak radioactive substance, which collects in a particular organ for a short time; a special camera is then used to look at the organ
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MRI scans: magnetic resonance imaging scan, an imaging technique in which magnets are used to help a computer to make images of the body
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ultrasound scans: an imaging technique which uses sound waves to create an image of internal organs
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mammograms: a specialised X-ray which shows up the breast tissue and can detect breast cancer
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PET scans: positron emission tomography, a fairly new type of scan that can show how body tissues are working and not just what they look like. A PET scan can show the difference between scar tissue and active cancer tissue.
Asking questions [PDF, 32 Kb] can help you to get important information about any tests for which you have been referred.