A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and often the first step is undergoing a battery of tests. This blog post aims to demystify some of the most common cancer tests, explaining their purpose, procedure, and what the results might mean.
- Biopsy: This involves taking a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope. Different types of biopsies exist, from needle biopsies to surgical biopsies.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans can all be used to visualize tumors and assess their spread.
- Blood Tests: Certain blood markers can indicate the presence of cancer, though further tests are usually needed for confirmation.
Remember, understanding these tests empowers you to ask informed questions and feel more in control during your cancer journey.