There are many different tests available today to help in the diagnosis of colon cancer. These various tests all have different ways in which they determine if cancer is present. Depending on the results of these various tests, your doctor will determine if colon cancer is present. Here is a brief description of each colon cancer testing method:
- fecal blood test (FCBT): This type of test can detect pre-cancerous cells in the stool. These type of tests typically a fecal lancet or stool test (FLBT). If the sample shows a high level of cellular activity (such as migrating bacteria) then it may be a good place to start with pre-cancerous cell detection. However, if the sample does not show such high levels of cellular activity then it will most likely be necessary to perform a colposcope in order to detect any pre-cancerous tumor.
- Mstf detects pre-cancerous polyps. Polyps are cancerous growths that form in the colon. A cystatin titer is used to determine if a myostatin titer is positive for cancer. Polyps may need to be tested every five years for myostatin detection.
- colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is when a small camera is introduced into the rectum. It can also be used in the oral cavity. The doctor inserts a thin flexible tube into the anus and looks for cancerous polyps or tumors. If a polyp is detected, a special light is emitted which can be used to confirm if it is a potential colon cancer stage. Colonoscopy is recommended for those at high risk for colon cancer.
As more tests are developed for various cancers, it becomes increasingly important to screen for these disorders as early as possible. This will minimize the trauma of detection and treatment and help patients decide on the course of their treatment. Every year, new tests and technologies are continually being developed to detect precancerous polyps or cancers before they spread. While you may not need to have all of these tests, you may want to take a few tests to make sure you are healthy and aware of any changes in your health.
In order to determine your average risk for colon cancer begin screening for it. Your doctor will tell you what your risk level is. Some people are at a lower average risk than others. Your family medical history may play a role in your risk level. Your daily habits and your weight may also affect your risk. You should talk with your doctor about your current health situation and find Thyroid Test out your average risk.
A colonoscopy is an exam in which your doctor inserts a camera into your rectum to see the colon. A thin tube is attached to the camera and the doctor uses this tube to feel the inside of your colon. The colonoscopy is generally performed in the doctor's office or a hospital setting. If you wish, you can go back to your home before the test to get a feeling for your colon as well. Colonoscopy can be quite scary, so you should prepare yourself beforehand.
A pathology report distributed to your doctor will likely include one or more tests. A CT scan can reveal if there is a cancer that has not yet reached the lymph nodes in the colon or bladder or if the cancer has already traveled to these areas. A biopsy can reveal other symptoms associated with colon cancer including the presence of polyps, abscesses, or other disorders.
CT scans are not always necessary for a colonoscopy. If the colonoscopy is being scheduled because of polyps or other disorders, then a CT scan may be ordered to find out more information. Both are forms of x-rays that may be ordered by your doctor if he or she determines they are needed. If the cancer has not yet reached these areas, then a CT scan cannot reveal it.
As you can see, there are many different methods of screening for colon cancer, but all of them require some sort of examination. Depending upon your circumstances, some screening tests may be more important than others. Your health care provider will determine what the appropriate tests are for you. He or she may suggest several tests in order to screen for some specific types of disorders or symptoms.
In addition to a CT scan, you may need an ultrasound, an MRI, or a bowel preparation test. Each one is designed to detect pre-cancerous polyps or cancerous growths. But each one of them also detects small abnormalities that can be potentially harmful. So, be sure to ask your health care provider about the types of tests that are typically done when screening for this condition.
