Doctors utilize a multitude of tests to diagnose or confirm the presence of cancer. They may likewise perform tests to figure out which specific treatments might provide the most favorable results. If you’re experiencing symptoms of head and neck cancer, your doctor will note all your risk factors and symptoms and dig deep into your medical history. Your doctor here at Midwest Ear Nose and Throat in Chicago, IL, Dr. Gordon Siegel, may likewise order these tests for diagnosing head & neck cancer:
Urine and Blood Tests and Physical Exams
During your physical exam, your doctor will look for lumps on your neck, cheeks, lips, and gums, and examine your nose, throat, tongue, and mouth for any irregularities. Urine and blood tests may also help alert your doctor to the presence of cancer.
Ultrasound
This utilizes sound waves for producing images of your internal organs.
Biopsy
A biopsy involves the extraction of a tiny tissue sample that will be examined by a pathologist to check for cancer cells.
Endoscopy
This will enable your doctor to view the inside of your body using an endoscope, which is a thin, flexible, lighted tube. It’s usually performed under sedation.
X-Rays and Barium Swallow
X-rays generate images of your internal body structures through the use of radiation. Swallowing barium may be needed to look at any abnormalities in the swallowing passage.
Molecular Tumor Tests
These are basically lab tests done on a sample of the tumor to recognize particular proteins, genes, and other factors that are specific to the tumor. The results from these tests could help in determining your treatment choices.
CAT or CT Scan / Computed Tomography
A CAT scan takes images of your body’s internal structure from various angles with the use of x-rays.
PET-CT or PET Scan / Positron Emission Tomography
This test is typically combined with CAT scans. Like a CAT scan, a PET scan can take photos of tissues and organs inside your body.
MRI / Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Instead of x-rays, an MRI utilizes magnetic fields to generate detailed internal body structure images, particularly of the soft tissues like the tongue’s base portion and the tonsils. Your doctor in Chicago, IL, may also use an MRI for measuring the head & neck cancer’s tumor size.
Bone Scan
This makes use of a radioactive tracer for looking inside your bones and is usually performed to check whether the cancer has spread or metastasized to your bones.
Once the results of your diagnostic tests are in, your doctor will discuss them with you. If you get a head and neck cancer diagnosis, these results will likewise help your doctor better describe what cancer you have and figure out the best treatment plan specific to your circumstances.
For More Information on Head & Neck Cancer, Call Us
Dial (312) 988-7777 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Gordon Siegel here at Midwest Ear Nose and Throat in Chicago, IL.
Midwest ENT is a member of Northwestern Private Practice, a group of independent physicians that provide top medical care to patients living in Chicagoland. We are all physicians with teaching appointments in the Feinberg Northwestern School of Medicine, and have the same privileges as the employed physicians. In most cases, we can see our existing or new patients in a timely fashion. We have physicians in almost every field of medicine and are committed to preserving the best quality of care. You can learn more about us on our website: www.northwesternprivatepractice.com. We look forward to the privilege of serving you now and for many years in the future.