What Are the Tumor Screening Tests Available?

Update Date: 2024-05-17 Source: Network

Many people clinically believe that they have tumor symptoms when they experience symptoms similar to tumors. However, the diagnosis of a tumor requires consideration of not only clinical manifestations but also the results of professional examination items. That is, tumor screening projects are necessary before confirming a tumor diagnosis. There are many tumor screening projects, so the final diagnosis is mostly determined based on the results of a comprehensive diagnosis. So what are the tumor screening projects? Here are some examples:

1. Blood tests

Blood tests are an important means of detecting early-stage cancer during physical examinations. By checking for elevations in various tumor marker indicators in the blood, various malignant tumors can be discovered and identified. For example, AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) can be used to screen for primary hepatocellular carcinoma and germ cell embryonal tumors. Elevated CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) levels are commonly associated with colon cancer, gastric cancer, lung cancer, and cholangiocarcinoma. Elevated levels can also be seen in liver cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and pancreatic cancer.

2. Pap smear in gynecological examination

The Pap smear, which uses the Pap staining method, can be used to detect early-stage cervical cancer with a detection rate of approximately 60% to 70%.

3. B-ultrasound

Using color Doppler imaging technology, B-ultrasound can clearly detect whether there are masses or lesions in most organs throughout the body.

4. X-ray chest radiography

After X-rays pass through the body, images are presented due to differences in the density of organs and tissues. This allows for the direct visualization of lung tumors and the indirect detection of chest tumors through changes such as emphysema, obstructive pneumonia, and pleural effusion.

5. Other methods of tumor screening

Middle-aged women should regularly undergo infrared mammography and combined tumor marker (CEA, CA15-3, TPA) testing. If a mass is evident, a breast biopsy should be performed to check for cancer cells. Individuals living in high-risk areas for liver cancer or with chronic viral hepatitis (especially hepatitis B and C) are recommended to undergo combined testing with B-ultrasound, hepatitis B five-item markers, and tumor markers (AFP, AFU).