What blood tests show cancer. Determination of diseases by a blood test Is cancer determined by a general blood test

Instruction

A general clinical blood test is the determination of hemoglobin concentration, color index, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), counting the number of erythrocytes, leukocytes and leukocyte formula.

Hemoglobin is a protein made up of heme and globin protein. Functions of hemoglobin: transport of oxygen from the lungs to tissues, removal of carbon dioxide from the body. The concentration of hemoglobin in the blood depends on age and gender. For middle-aged women, this value is 120-140 g / l, middle-aged - 140-160 g / l.

An increased concentration of hemoglobin may indicate dehydration, excessive exercise or arousal, smoking. A reduced concentration of hemoglobin may indicate anemia of various etiologies: with blood loss, with impaired blood formation, with increased blood destruction.

An erythrocyte is a non-nuclear blood element containing hemoglobin. The function of the erythrocyte is to carry hemoglobin. The number of red blood cells in the blood depends on age and gender. For middle-aged women, this value is 3.5 - 5.0 * 1012 / l, for middle-aged women -4.0 - 5.5 * 1012 / l.

An increased content of red blood cells in the blood may indicate increased physical activity, obesity, emotional stress, alcoholism, smoking, lung diseases, heart defects. A low content of red blood cells in the blood indicates the presence of anemia. With iron deficiency anemia against the background of chronic losses, a normal content of erythrocytes or their slight decrease is noted. With acute blood loss, B12 deficiency anemia, the number of red blood cells is greatly reduced.

The color index is the relative content of hemoglobin in the erythrocyte. The norm of the color index: 0.85-1.05. With a color index less than 0.8, the presence of iron deficiency anemia is suggested. A color index of more than 1.1 may indicate the presence of megaloblastic anemia, anemia with cirrhosis of the liver, taking contraceptives, anticonvulsants.

The main function of leukocytes is to protect the body from foreign agents, due to their participation in immunity and the presence of phagocytic activity. The number of leukocytes in the blood depends on age. For a middle-aged person, this figure is 4.0 - 8.8 * 109 / l.

An increase in the number of blood leukocytes may indicate a bacterial, viral, fungal infection, an inflammatory state of the body, malignant tumors, and leukemia. A decrease in the number of leukocytes may indicate damage to the bone marrow by chemicals, drugs, acute leukemia, sepsis, the result.

The indicator of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) depends on age and sex. For middle-aged women, the ESR should be less than 12 mm/h; for middle-aged men, the ESR should be less than 8 mm/h. An increase in ESR is a sign of the presence of infectious or inflammatory processes in the body. In the acute period of the disease, ESR increases, during the recovery period it slows down.

The normal rate of basophils in the blood of a middle-aged person is 0-0.5%. Its increase may indicate an allergic reaction to food, drugs, chronic ulcerative colitis, estrogen treatment.

When a patient goes to the doctor in case of malaise, the specialist listens to complaints and directs them to take tests. The results of the study allow you to determine the deviation, and suspect a malignant formation.

A general blood test for cancer shows a serious deviation from the norm, this indicates a pathological process in the body.

How to determine oncology based on test results?

Does a blood test show cancer? There is no definite answer to this question; more often, experts recommend undergoing additional research in order to accurately identify the oncological process in the body. What does the result of a general blood test show?

In a cancer patient, the level of leukocytes is increased, hemoglobin is lowered, but such indicators only help to suspect the presence of cancer cells.

To clarify the diagnosis, you will need to undergo an x-ray, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and a biopsy.

A referral for a clinical blood test is given by a therapist, but if oncology is suspected, further monitoring should be carried out by an oncologist. A general laboratory study is carried out in each medical institution. But the results of the procedure are not a sentence for the patient. Deviations from the norm may indicate another disease. To accurately establish oncological pathology, a person is sent for biochemical analysis.

Biochemistry results show:

• the location of the malignant neoplasm;
• the stage of the disease;
• tumor size;
• response to medications.

With leukemia, there is a decrease in platelets, because the functioning of the bone marrow is disrupted. In healthy people, this deviation is not observed. If the deviations of the general blood test from the norm are insignificant, this indicates a chronic form of the disease, inflammation. In this case, there is no threat of the formation of a malignant tumor.

Transcription of clinical analysis

After the blood sampling procedure, the specialist deciphers the result. Will a blood test show cancer? An important role is played by changes in the level of hemoglobin, white and red blood cells. A serious deviation from normal indicators is characteristic of a pathological process, a cancerous tumor in the body.

A decrease in hemoglobin leads to an increase in leukocytes. These cells fight pathogenic viruses and bacteria. These indicators make it possible to suspect the destruction of healthy cells, to diagnose severe pathogenic abnormalities.

The doctor pays attention to red blood cells, in healthy women they do not exceed 14 mm / h, in men - 10 mm / h. A serious deviation of such indicators requires additional examination of the patient. To avoid a false result, experts recommend re-taking blood and passing a urine test. If protein is found in the urine, the doctor may suspect cancer.

If there are no symptoms of the disease, the doctor recommends repeated tests. It is important to follow all the recommendations of specialists before manipulation.

How to carry out the procedure?

A general analysis is a blood sampling from a finger. The procedure is carried out in the morning, the patient is forbidden to eat, drink coffee, tea. In the evening before the manipulation, you can not eat fatty, fried foods that contain a lot of calories, cause heaviness of the stomach. Failure to follow these tips can cause a false result, then you will need to re-donate blood.

During the manipulation, a trained nurse draws blood from a finger using a sterile needle. This procedure must be carried out annually for preventive purposes. The importance of a complete blood count cannot be underestimated. Cancer may be asymptomatic. If the disease is detected at the first stage, with adequate treatment, the patient can recover.

The results of the analysis will help the specialist assess the state of health of the patient, and additional manipulations will make it possible to establish the correct diagnosis.

Therefore, a blood sampling procedure is mandatory to detect a malignant neoplasm.

Biochemical procedure

Blood sampling for biochemical analysis is carried out from a vein. Manipulation is done on an empty stomach, it is important that the patient does not eat for more than eight hours.

To confirm the results, a second procedure is prescribed, after three days.

The dynamics of the results of the indicators will make it possible to draw up a clinical picture of the disease. The procedure will help to establish the location of the malignant tumor, its growth, the presence of metastases.

Key markers that can show the presence of cancer cells:

• PSA is an enzyme produced by the prostate gland. When the indicator exceeds thirty units, the doctor may suspect the presence of an oncological formation.
• CA-125, a serious excess of this indicator indicates ovarian or endometrial cancer in the weaker sex. To make the correct diagnosis, a woman undergoes a vaginal ultrasound examination.
• CA 15–3, exceeding the norm more often indicates a malignant tumor of the breast.
• AFP excess may indicate cancer of the liver or digestive tract.
• CEA is a cancer embryonic antigen, an increased concentration is observed when cancer cells of the liver, bladder, intestines, cervix, prostate adenoma, and respiratory organs are affected. But a high increase in performance can be observed in people who abuse alcohol, tobacco smoke. MRI or computed tomography will help diagnose the disease.

• CA 19-9, such a tumor marker helps to detect cancer of the rectum, stomach, pancreas.

Reasons for the formation of an oncological tumor

There are various theories as to why cancer cells appear in the body. But experts do not give a definite answer.

Presumably there are a number of factors that provoke the disease:

• race, German doctors found that white people are more likely to get cancer than blacks;
• unbalanced nutrition, inadequate diet leads to metabolic disorders, which provokes the formation of a malignant tumor;
• overweight, American scientists in a study confirmed that the risk of oncology with obesity increases by 50%;
• tobacco smoke often causes cancer;
• genetic inheritance;
• ultraviolet radiation causes thyroid cancer.

To determine the disease in the early stages, it is necessary to distinguish between the symptoms of the disease:

• A person loses his appetite, he loses weight sharply.
• Any wounds do not heal for a long time, fistulas form.
• Blood is observed in the urine and feces, defecation is disturbed.
• The functioning of the bladder, intestines is disturbed.
• Moles, birthmarks change.
• For a long time tormented by a dry cough that is not treatable.

With such symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor. And the first thing to do is a general blood test. The result will allow you to determine the condition of a person, to suspect a pathological deviation. After additional procedures, you can make the correct diagnosis and prescribe effective therapy.

Interesting, informative article. For example, every six months I go through a partial examination of the body, which always includes a complete blood count. I wonder if the presence of any toxins in the body, like alcohol, affects the test results?

My mother-in-law received a blood test, where her ESR is 43, and now she is crying, she is afraid that she has cancer. Could this be?

According to medical statistics, oncological diseases annually claim thousands of lives along with disorders of the cardiovascular system. However, the main cause of the occurrence of mutations in cells has not yet been identified. Therefore, the only sure way to start timely treatment of oncology is to identify the disease at the earliest stage, which can be helped by blood tests. Despite the fact that most of the indicators are not specific to the occurrence of a tumor, doctors with solid practice and experience can detect the onset of inflammation processes and prescribe additional diagnostic procedures to the patient.

Blood parameters in oncological diseases

General clinical blood test

Most of the questions boil down to what the results of the analysis will be when there is an oncological disease. It is difficult to provide an exact answer, since several factors are taken into account when identifying the results of the analysis:

• individual characteristics of a particular patient;
• what type of malignancy is it;
• in what place the tumor was localized in the body;
• the nature of the ongoing process.

Several features of the results obtained after the study can serve as indicators of the possible occurrence of cancer. During this analysis, you should look at the following factors:

• hemoglobin indicators;
• the composition of leukocytes - in terms of quality and quantity.

General clinical analysis of blood. Norm

In the presence of blood cancer, the number of leukocytes increases, which is associated with an increase in the number of young forms of cells. In the case of the development of leukemia, an increase in the concentration of various forms of leukocytes is observed.

Important! The presence of lymphoblasts, as well as myeloblasts, confirms the occurrence of a malignant tumor in a patient.

The difference between the ESR and the norm is expressed in an increase in the rate at which erythrocytes settle. In the normal state for the female body, this indicator ranges from 8 to 15 mm / h, for the male - from 6 to 12 mm / h. An increase in the sedimentation rate by several times indicates the presence of an inflammatory process, and one can speak of an early tumor growth at rates from 10 to 50 mm/h.

ESR norm for women and men

As for the level of hemoglobin, its decrease reaches up to units in patients with oncology. Then they can get a blood transfusion. The greatest loss of hemoglobin is usually tied to cancer of the stomach or intestines. In the case of the presence of one of the types of leukemia or liver cancer, in addition to changes in the ESR, the concentration of platelets decreases and blood clotting increases. In the case of a metastatic tumor, anemia or a decrease in the level of hemoglobin is provoked by changes in the bone marrow, which performs the hematopoietic function.

Blood chemistry

In the case of the appearance of malignant tumors, changes occur not only in the results of a clinical blood test, but also when conducting studies of its biochemical composition. When the pancreas is damaged, the amount of glucose changes. It is produced with the help of insulin and reflects the state of carbohydrate metabolism.

The norm of a biochemical blood test

In oncology of the biliary tract, the results of a biochemical analysis will show a change in the concentration of bilirubin, a bile pigment, since the ducts of the same name are blocked.

Increased activity of enzymes such as aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase reveals malignant neoplasms in the liver.

In direct dependence on the location and type of tumor, changes in other indicators occur. such as gamma globulin or urea.

When a patient has an oncological pathology, according to the results of a biochemical analysis, a decrease in the concentration of fibrinogen and albumin will be visible. The first is a protein in blood plasma that contributes to its coagulation, while the second refers to the main blood proteins.

Complete blood count - prognosis for breast cancer

Tumor markers - what are they and what role do they play in diagnosis

A blood test for the presence of tumor markers is one of the latest developments in the field of medicine. Tumor markers are complex protein compounds produced by tumor cells or healthy cells located around the neoplasm. Usually, these compounds are present in the human body in very small quantities, but when pathologies occur, their number increases dramatically. This makes it possible to diagnose destructive processes at the very beginning of their activity, as well as to make a final diagnosis in the event of a controversial situation.

Important! Since not only oncological diseases, but also hormonal disruptions, organ injuries or inflammatory processes can lead to an increase in the number of tumor markers, doctors need to conduct a more comprehensive examination to identify the main causes of the pathology.

The main tumor markers and their acceptable ranges of values ​​in the analysis are shown in the table below:

What changes in the general blood test show oncology

The disease of various types of cancer today is one of the most severe and bitter diseases of our century. Cancer cells can go unnoticed for a long time and lurk in the body. Therefore, it is very important to listen to yourself and take tests more often. After all, the detection of a malignant tumor and early diagnosis greatly increases the chances of a cure, improving the quality of life and the condition of patients, and reducing the risk of death.

Many are interested in the question of what a general blood test shows in oncology, and is it possible to detect cancer in a person using such a simple blood test?

What can a general blood test show?

Complete urinalysis and blood tests are the tests that doctors most often recommend taking when dealing with a problem. To the question whether it is possible to detect neoplasms and cancerous tumors with the help of such analyzes, there is no definite answer. The result will depend on many factors: the personal characteristics of each organism, the shape of the tumor, its location and the duration of the course and development of the disease.

But nevertheless, the indicators of a blood test for oncology can differ significantly from the norms and differ from a healthy person. And an experienced specialist will pay attention to the specific features in the overall analysis. Let's try to indicate which blood indicators indicate oncology, directly or indirectly.

First of all, leukocytes undergo quantitative and qualitative changes in oncology. In the general analysis, a sharp increase in leukocytes in the blood can be noticeable, usually due to an increase in the formation of their new cellular forms. In addition, the laboratory conclusion may indicate that there is a place for leukocytosis and the detection of myeloblasts and lymphoblasts, which further confirms the presence of a malignant tumor.

Most likely, a clinical (or general) blood test will show that the SOE rate in oncology is increased - this is the erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Moreover, this indicator will remain high throughout the disease, and will not decrease even under the influence of anti-inflammatory and antibacterial drugs. Read more at the link http://vseproanalizy.ru/soe-pri-onkologii.html

Another suspicious indicator that is worth focusing on. Low hemoglobin in oncology can be observed in patients with a normal lifestyle and good nutrition. The fastest hemoglobin drops sharply in cancer of the stomach and intestines. What to eat with low hemoglobin, read the article at the link http://vseproanalizy.ru/pitanie-pri-nizkom-gemoglobine.html

Often, some blood indicators for oncology may be similar to other inflammatory processes in the body, in which case it would be better for you to undergo an additional examination for oncology.

What blood test shows oncology?

What is a blood test for cancer called? The most accurate analysis for detecting oncology is a blood test for tumor markers, these are certain antigenic and protein substances produced by cancer cells. In a healthy person, such indicators are absent or found in scanty amounts.

Consider the key markers for oncology, which can be used to detect cancer.

1. PSA. This enzyme is produced by the prostate gland. Over the years, the enzyme becomes more. But if its indicator reaches 30 or more units, this indicates the onset of tumor processes in the prostate gland.
2. SA-125. An increase in this oncomarker is usually associated with the development of ovarian and endometrial cancer in women. To confirm the diagnosis, you need to undergo an additional examination, do an intravaginal ultrasound.
3. SA 15-3. An increase in the rate of this component indicates a possible breast cancer (mammary glands).
4. AFP (Alpha fetoprotein) Oncomorker, which shows the presence of liver cancer, as well as the presence of neoplasms in the organs of the digestive system.
5. CEA (Cancer-embryonic antigen) If a high concentration of this antigen is detected, it can indicate developing cancer of the liver, bladder, intestines, cervix, pancreas or prostate, breast, lungs. But in other cases, this marker is overestimated in heavy smokers, in people who abuse alcohol with advanced cirrhosis of the liver. The diagnosis should be confirmed with the help of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
6. SA 19-9. An indicative tumor marker in the detection of cancer of the rectum, large intestine, stomach, pancreas and other organs in the gastrointestinal system. The final diagnosis for this indicator is not established, it is mandatory to undergo auxiliary studies.

A blood test for tumor markers is prescribed for people who are suspected of developing cancer or who have a hereditary tendency to form tumors, and this analysis must also be taken by those who have already been cured of cancer to confirm their healing.

The undoubted advantage of a blood test for tumor markers is that cancer cells can be detected at an early stage. But, unfortunately, not all doctors and patients need to pass such tests. It is known that changes occur in the blood during oncology, therefore, antigens detected in time in one quantity or another prove and confirm the presence of a malignant tumor.

But, not always an overestimated indicator states cancer in a patient, sometimes it can talk about other diseases and pathological processes in the body. In addition, it should be noted that a blood test for the presence of antigens is not done in every municipal clinic, and in private clinics this laboratory test costs decent money.

Does a blood test show cancer? Undoubtedly, suspicions of a tumor may also arise from the results of a general clinical blood test, but nevertheless, no specialist will make a terrible diagnosis without an additional examination, sometimes it takes many months.

You should not independently analyze your blood test for oncology, the transcript will be given to you and explained by your doctor.

• Urinalysis (46)
• Biochemical blood test (82)
  • Squirrels (26)
  • Ionogram (19)
  • Lipidogram (20)
  • Enzymes (13)
• Hormones (22)
  • Thyroid (22)
• Complete blood count (82)
  • Hemoglobin (14)
  • Leukocyte formula (12)
  • Leukocytes (9)
  • Lymphocytes (6)
  • General (8)
  • ESR (9)
  • Platelets (10)
  • Red blood cells (8)

If the level of TPO antibodies is elevated, then it is time to conduct a thorough diagnosis for the presence of thyroid pathologies. First of all, we can talk about autoimmune.

What are antibodies to thyroperoxidase, what role do they play in the body, and what is their norm in the blood? Antibodies are specific substances produced by the human body.

Human health directly depends on how well its internal organs and systems function. One of the key roles is played by the endocrine system, the largest.

The human thyroid gland produces a specific protein thyroglobulin, which is a prohormone. With its participation, the synthesis of such important substances as.

Thyrocalcitonin is a specific thyroid hormone, the synthesis of which occurs with the participation of special C-cells. The functions of this substance have not yet been fully studied,.

The disease of various types of cancer today is one of the most severe and bitter diseases of our century. Cancer cells may not produce o for a long time.

Blood is the most important component of a living organism, it is a liquid tissue consisting of plasma and formed elements. Under shaped elements are understood.

Poikilocytosis is a condition or disease of the blood in which the shape of red blood cells is modified or deformed to one degree or another. The erythrocytes are responsible.

Science has been studying human blood for a long time. Today, in any modern clinic, according to the results of a blood test, you can identify the general condition of the body that is available.

A blood test can give, if not complete, then a sufficient amount of information about the state of health of the body. Therefore, it is very important to take it correctly, even a small one.

Looking at the results of a general blood test, any experienced doctor will be able to preliminarily assess the patient's condition. ESR is an abbreviation that means "deposition rate.

Can a complete blood count show cancer?

A malignant tumor is one of the most dangerous and significant problems of the modern world. A general blood test in oncology is the most important method in order to determine the onset of the development of the disease. It is known that a general analysis shows many different diseases in the body and cancer is no exception.

Every year thousands of people die from oncology, most of whom learned about their disease at late and almost incurable stages. To identify oncology in the early period of its development, helps the body to overcome the disease, with little or no harm.

A general blood test for cancer gives a result with a reduced level of hemoglobin in the blood, while the level of leukocytes, on the contrary, increases. Also, leukocytes become faster than usual, which prevents them from completely saturating the body with oxygen, which indicates external signs of malaise, which anti-inflammatory drugs cannot cope with. But such indicators are not always accurate, because changes in the readings can be caused by a common cold, so they only help to suspect the onset of the oncological disease.

How to recognize?

Normal tests for women are in the range from 8 to 15 mm / h, and for men this value varies from 6 to 12 mm / h. And the higher the deviation from the norm is shown, the higher the indicators that this is a tumor. A referral to a general blood test can be obtained from a general practitioner, but if a tumor is suspected, further tests are carried out under the guidance of an oncologist, who can more accurately identify diseases using a series of studies.

It is also very important to remember that if you notice changes in skin pigmentation, changes in the chest or throat, bleeding after intercourse, wounds that take a long time to heal, loss of weight and appetite, dry mouth that does not respond to treatment, as well as disorders in the work of the digestive system, then you should immediately undergo an examination by an oncologist, because with the help of this you can determine the first signs of cancer.

To begin with, for more detailed studies, a specific analysis for oncomarkers is prescribed, then, if they confirm the presence of a tumor, then even more detailed analyzes are prescribed, such as: X-ray, biopsy, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound. All this helps to determine the exact size, stage, location and response to medications.

Types of cancer and how to detect them.

A blood test for oncology, also called a biochemical procedure for the detection of cancer markers, is carried out in the morning, always on an empty stomach, provided that the patient has not eaten for about 8 hours before the procedure and by taking blood from a vein, studies are being conducted. For more accurate confirmation, a clinical blood test is repeated after three days. This helps to determine the growth of a malignant tumor, its location and the presence of metastases.

Also, in order for the indicators to be more accurate, when testing for a cancerous tumor, some patients are advised not to eat salty, fried, smoked and fatty foods with spices. And when taking tests to detect a malignant tumor in the urinary system, a couple of days before the delivery, it is recommended to prohibit sexual intercourse.

Tumor markers can indicate only one type of cancer. In general, about two hundred substances are known that are considered cancer markers, but in order to diagnose cancer, less than twenty basic ones are enough:

1. CEA (cancer-embryonic). It is formed during pregnancy in the digestive tract, but its synthesis is completely suppressed in adults. An elevated level on tests can manifest itself in cancer of the liver, bladder, respiratory organs, prostate adenoma, cervix, intestines. Also, an increased rate can occur in people who smoke, in people who abuse alcohol, with kidney failure, tuberculosis, autoimmune disorders, and pancreatitis. MRI or computed tomography will help diagnose cancer more accurately.
2. CA - 125 marker, which, with a significant increase, indicates cancer in the ovaries, uterus and breast, as well as the pancreas. Also, the cause of an increased level can be the menstrual cycle or the period of pregnancy. To confirm an accurate diagnosis, a woman undergoes a vaginal ultrasound examination.
3. PSA (free prostate antigen). When the indicator exceeds thirty units, the doctor may suspect the presence of cancer.
4. CA 15-3 excess, which often speaks of oncology of the mammary glands. Also, an increase in this marker can be during pregnancy.
5. AFP is a marker, the excess of which reports oncology of the liver and digestive tract.
6. CA 19-9 is a marker indicating malignancy in the stomach and pancreas, as well as in the intestines.
7. HCE skin cancer marker
8. HCG is detected in bladder and ovarian cancer, and can also be elevated due to pregnancy.

Causes of education and preventive measures.

Until now, there is no normal and exact answer to why cancerous tumors arise, there are only some assumptions:

• German doctors have found that, perhaps, race plays a significant role, because according to statistics, black people get less cancer than whites.
• Obesity and malnutrition, excessive consumption of fatty and smoked foods, as well as sausages, because the amount of nitrates in it is high.
• Smoking can also be some of the causes of cancer (cancer of the lung, jaw).
• Ultraviolet and ionizing radiation, can serve as the formation of a tumor.
• Viral infections, hepatitis C and B, human papillomavirus.
• environmental factors.
• Hereditary occurrence of cancer.

There are three types of cancer prevention measures:

1.Increased activity (contributing to the prevention of obesity), proper nutrition and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

2.Regular passage of doctors, diagnostic examinations:

• In women, mammography, fluorogram and general blood test for tumor markers
• For men - CT, MRI, endoscopic diagnostics, blood tests for tumor markers

3. Prevention directly related to oncological tumors and prevention of metastasis.

• Chemoprophylaxis for people at risk, as well as hereditarily disposed to oncological diseases.
• Prevention of the liver associated with chemotherapy.

Compliance with all these measures, and timely examination reduces the development of malignant tumors.

What blood test indicators show oncology (cancer)

Diagnosis of cancerous tumors is a comprehensive examination using specific instrumental and laboratory methods. It is carried out according to indications, among which there are violations identified by a standard clinical blood test.

Malignant neoplasms grow very intensively, while consuming vitamins and microelements, as well as releasing the products of their vital activity into the blood, leading to significant intoxication of the body. Nutrients are taken from the blood, the products of their processing also get there, which affects its composition. Therefore, it is often during routine examinations and laboratory tests that signs of a dangerous disease are detected.

What blood tests show cancer

Cancer can be suspected based on the results of standard and special studies. In pathological processes in the body, changes in the composition and properties of blood are reflected in:

• general blood test;
• biochemical research;
• analysis for tumor markers.

However, it is impossible to reliably determine cancer by a blood test. Deviations of any indicators can be caused by diseases that are in no way connected with oncology. Even a specific and most informative analysis for oncomarkers does not give a 100% guarantee of the presence or absence of a disease and needs to be confirmed.

Is it possible to determine oncology (cancer) by a general blood test?

This type of laboratory study gives an idea of ​​the number of basic shaped elements that are responsible for the functions of the blood. A decrease or increase in any indicators is a signal of trouble, including the presence of neoplasms. A sample is taken from a finger (sometimes from a vein) in the morning, on an empty stomach. The table below lists the major categories of CBC or CBC and their normal values.

When interpreting the analyzes, it must be taken into account that, depending on gender and age, the indicators may vary, and there are also physiological reasons for increasing or decreasing values.

Almost all of these blood counts in oncology change in the direction of decrease or increase. What exactly does the doctor pay attention to when studying the results of the analysis:

• ESR. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate in the plasma is above normal. Physiologically, this can be explained by menstruation in women, increased physical activity, stress, etc. However, if the excess is significant and is accompanied by symptoms of general weakness and subfebrile temperature, cancer can be suspected.
• Neutrophils. Their number has been increased. Especially dangerous is the appearance of new, immature cells (myelocytes and metamyelocytes) in the peripheral blood, which is characteristic of neuroblastomas and other oncological diseases.
• Lymphocytes. These indicators of KLA in oncology are above the norm, since it is this blood element that is responsible for immunity and fights cancer cells.
• Hemoglobin. It decreases if there are tumor processes of internal organs. This is explained by the fact that the waste products of tumor cells damage red blood cells, reducing their number.
• Leukocytes. The number of white blood cells, as tests show in oncology, always decreases if the bone marrow is affected by metastases. The leukocyte formula is shifted to the left. Neoplasms of another localization lead to an increase.

It should be borne in mind that a decrease in hemoglobin and the number of red blood cells is characteristic of ordinary anemia caused by iron deficiency. An increase in ESR is observed in inflammatory processes. Therefore, such signs of oncology in a blood test are considered indirect and need to be confirmed.

Biochemical research

The purpose of this analysis, which is carried out annually, is to obtain information about the metabolism, the work of various internal organs, the balance of vitamins and microelements. A biochemical blood test for oncology is also informative, since a change in certain values ​​allows us to draw conclusions about the presence of cancerous tumors. From the table you can find out what indicators should be normal.

It is possible to suspect cancer by a biochemical blood test when the following values ​​​​are not normal:

• Albumin and total protein. They characterize the total amount of proteins in the blood serum and the content of the main one. A developing neoplasm actively consumes protein, so this indicator is significantly reduced. If the liver is affected, then even with good nutrition, there is a deficiency.
• Glucose. Cancer of the reproductive (especially female) system, liver, lungs affects the synthesis of insulin, inhibiting it. As a result, symptoms of diabetes mellitus appear, which reflects a biochemical blood test for cancer (sugar levels rise).
• Alkaline phosphatase. Increases, first of all, with bone tumors or metastases in them. It may also indicate oncology of the gallbladder, liver.
• Urea. This criterion allows you to evaluate the work of the kidneys, and if it is elevated, there is a pathology of the organ or there is an intensive breakdown of the protein in the body. The latter phenomenon is characteristic of tumor intoxication.
• Bilirubin and alanine aminotransferase (ALAT). An increase in the amount of these compounds informs about liver damage, including a cancerous tumor.

If cancer is suspected, a biochemical blood test cannot be used as a confirmation of the diagnosis. Even if there are coincidences on all points, additional laboratory tests will be required. As for blood donation itself, it is taken from a vein in the morning, and it is impossible to eat and drink (boiled water is allowed) from the previous evening.

Basic Analysis

If a biochemical and general blood test in oncology gives only a general idea of ​​the presence of a pathological process, then a study on tumor markers even allows you to determine the location of a malignant neoplasm. This is the name of a blood test for cancer, which identifies specific compounds produced by the tumor itself or the body in response to its presence.

In total, about 200 tumor markers are known, but a little more than twenty are used for diagnosis. Some of them are specific, that is, they indicate damage to a particular organ, while others can be detected in different types of cancer. For example, alpha-fetoprotein is a common oncomarker for oncology, it is found in almost 70% of patients. The same applies to CEA (cancer-embryonic antigen). Therefore, to determine the type of tumor, blood is examined for a combination of common and specific tumor markers:

• Protein S-100, NSE – brain;
• CA-15-3, CA-72-4, CEA - the mammary gland is affected;
• SCC, alpha-fetoprotein - cervix;
• AFP, SA-125, hCG - ovaries;
• CYFRA 21-1, CEA, NSE, SCC - lungs;
• AFP, CA 19-9, CA-125 - liver;
• CA 19-9, REA, CA 242 - stomach and pancreas;
• SA-72-4, CEA - intestines;
• PSA, prostate;
• HCG, AFP - testicles;
• Protein S-100 - skin.

But with all the accuracy and information content, the diagnosis of oncology by a blood test for tumor markers is preliminary. The presence of antigens can be a sign of inflammation and other diseases, and CEA is always elevated in smokers. Therefore, without confirmation by instrumental studies, the diagnosis is not made.

Can you get a good blood test for cancer?

This question is legitimate. If bad results are not a confirmation of cancer, can it be the other way around? Yes it is possible. The result of the analysis may be affected by the small size of the tumor or the use of drugs (given that for each tumor marker there is a specific list of drugs, the use of which can lead to false positive or false negative results, the attending physician and laboratory staff should be notified of the drugs taken by the patient).

Even if the blood tests are good and instrumental diagnostics did not give a result, but there are subjective complaints of pain, we can talk about an extraorgan tumor. For example, its retroperitoneal variety is detected already at stage 4, before that it practically did not let you know about yourself. The age factor also matters, since metabolism slows down over the years, and antigens also enter the blood slowly.

What blood parameters show oncology in women

The risk of getting cancer is approximately the same for both sexes, but the beautiful half of humanity has an additional vulnerability. The female reproductive system is at high risk of cancer, especially the mammary glands, which makes breast cancer the 2nd most common cancer among all malignant neoplasms. The epithelium of the cervix is ​​also prone to malignant degeneration, so women should be responsible for examinations and pay attention to the following test results:

• KLA in oncology shows a decrease in the level of red blood cells and hemoglobin, as well as an increase in ESR.
• Biochemical analysis - here the cause for concern is the increase in the amount of glucose. Such symptoms of diabetes are especially dangerous for women, as they often become harbingers of breast and uterine cancer.
• In the study of tumor markers, the simultaneous presence of SCC antigens and alpha-fetoprotein indicates the risk of damage to the cervix. Glycoprotein CA 125 - the threat of endometrial cancer, AFP, CA-125, hCG - ovaries, and the combination of CA-15-3, CA-72-4, CEA suggests that the tumor can be localized in the mammary glands.

If something is alarming in the analyzes and there are characteristic signs of oncology in the initial stage, a visit to the doctor cannot be postponed. In addition, you should visit a gynecologist at least once a year, and regularly examine your breasts on your own. These simple preventive measures often help detect cancer in its early stages.

When is an analysis for tumor markers needed?

You should undergo an examination with a prolonged deterioration in well-being in the form of weakness, constant low temperature, fatigue, weight loss, anemia of unknown origin, swollen lymph nodes, the appearance of seals in the mammary glands, changes in the color and size of moles, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, accompanied by discharge of blood after defecation, obsessive cough without signs of infection, etc.

Additional reasons are:

• age over 40;
• oncology in a family history;
• going beyond the norm of indicators of biochemical analysis and KLA;
• pain or prolonged dysfunction of any organs or systems, even to a slight extent.

The analysis does not take much time, while helping to identify a life-threatening disease in time and cure it in the least traumatic ways. In addition, such examinations should become regular (at least once a year) for those who have relatives with oncology or have crossed the age limit of forty.

How to prepare for the test for oncomarkers

Blood for research on antigens is donated from a vein in the morning. The results are issued within 1-3 days, and in order for them to be reliable, certain recommendations must be followed:

• do not have breakfast;
• do not take any medications and vitamins the day before;
• three days before making a cancer diagnosis by a blood test, exclude alcohol;
• do not take fatty and fried foods the day before;
• a day before the study, exclude heavy physical exertion;
• on the day of delivery, do not smoke in the morning (smoking increases CEA);
• so that third-party factors do not distort the indicators, first cure all infections.

After receiving the results on hand, one should not draw any independent conclusions and make diagnoses. This blood test for cancer does not have 100% certainty and requires instrumental confirmation.

When health problems begin: the inflammatory process does not go away or the traditional course of treatment for some disease does not bring results, the doctor gives a referral for tests. The simplest study - a blood test taken from a finger, can tell enough about the patient's condition.

Other blood cells may be deficient. Anemia is noted.

If the analysis detects the presence of granulocytes or granular leukocytes in an increased amount, then we can talk about developing chronic leukemia.

Anemia and a decrease in the number of other types of cells may also be observed.

Biochemical analysis helps to determine whether the pathological process has caused tumor formations in other organs. With blood cancer, a pathological disorder can occur with any type of blood cell, this is clarified with the help of research.

Elevated level of oncomarker B-2-MG may indicate the presence of multiple myeloma, lymphoma, or lymphocytic leukemia.

Patient preparation

To prevent unaccounted factors from affecting the blood counts on cancer, it is recommended to perform preparatory steps before submitting the material for analysis.

• It is necessary to refuse systemic medication two weeks before the procedure.
• In order not to worsen the result due to the body's reaction to alcohol, fried and fatty foods, you should not use this for a couple of days before taking the analysis.
• Smoking includes negative processes in the body, so you need to stop it at least an hour before the procedure.
• It is recommended to spend half an hour before the procedure at rest, excluding mental and physical stress.
• If the day before the patient underwent other types of examinations with the help of devices or instruments, then it is better to take a pause so as not to get a distorted result.

Rules for general analysis:

• In four to five hours, a small meal is possible, but it is better to take a break in food for eight hours. You can drink water.

Biochemical analysis:

• In order to get the correct undistorted result, it is necessary to fast for 8 ÷ 12 hours before the procedure. Since the sampling of material for analysis is usually carried out in the morning, the time for a break in food falls on a night's sleep. You can drink water.

Video about diagnosing cancer with a blood test:

A blood test is the easiest and fastest way to determine the presence of abnormalities in the body, but is there such a test that shows cancer? Below in the article we will understand what types of cancerous tumors can be detected by the results of a blood test and how reliable such results are.

With prolonged inflammation, when conventional methods of treatment fail to make progress, they resort to additional tests, the main of which is a blood test. Even with an analysis taken from a finger, you can learn a lot about the internal state of the patient.

Cancer and oncological diseases in the early phase usually do not have pronounced symptoms. In this case, the identification of the disease at the initial stage gives a good chance of a successful cure. Below we will consider whether a blood test can determine cancer or a malignant neoplasm of a different location - in the mammary glands in women, intestines, stomach, lungs, etc.

Does a blood test show cancer?

We must say right away that it is impossible to make a direct diagnosis of the presence of cancer pathology by monitoring the composition of the blood. However, through a general blood test, other more highly specialized studies, as well as testing for tumor markers, it is possible to determine the existence of abnormalities in the body, which should be the impetus for a deeper examination. The result is often a diagnosis of cancer.

At the same time, it is not always easy to accurately decipher the obtained indicators. Lots of adjustments introduces a background ailment, adherence to bad habits, the state of pregnancy in a woman. The best way out is to compare this blood test with the results of previous studies.

If the blood is examined regularly and there is a history of changes in its parameters, then the doctor will be aware of the individual characteristics of a particular patient and will be able to catch critical shifts in the decoding of the general analysis in time and prescribe additional research procedures.

What types of diagnostics help to determine cancer

The most accessible and popular methods for the primary diagnosis of cancerous oncology are:

1. Biochemical blood tests for various tumor markers;

With the help of a clinical examination, a wide range of global abnormalities in the body is revealed, which, among other things, can also show a malignant cancerous tumor. Biochemical scanning, which is subjected to blood, is a narrowly focused procedure aimed at clarifying the disease, carried out when indicated.

Many types of cancer can be initially detected by testing for tumor markers, as certain markers that react sharply are called. for various types of cancers of different genesis and localization, for example, a tumor of the stomach, liver, mammary glands, lungs and others.

However, the accuracy of such tests is not always high, often they do not determine the disease, or they show it falsely, therefore, it is not recommended to do such cancer tests without a doctor's recommendation, as this threatens with severe psychological stress out of the blue.

When to do a blood test for cancer

Recall that blood is the most important liquid that performs a number of functions at once, on which human life directly depends, for example, it:

• supplies all tissues of the body with oxygen;
• performs a protective function;
• participates in the disposal of unnecessary substances;

Thus, if any organ or system has undergone the appearance of cancer, then from a certain point it will affect the composition of the blood. We list the initial symptoms of cancer, after which the analysis can determine a terrible disease:

1. Prolonged inflammation that does not go away chronic disease;
2. Treatment with previously used drugs does not work;
3. Immune protection is noticeably reduced, frequent colds;
4. Sudden loss of body weight;
5. Radical changes in sensations of smells, tastes;
6. Persistent poor appetite;
7. causeless pain;
8. Chronic malaise;

General blood analysis

The most common type of testing that everyone has undergone. Cancer is also beginning to be diagnosed from it. The results of the clinical examination show at what level are:

• platelets, whose task is to regulate coagulability;
• red blood cells- red corpuscles that carry oxygen throughout the body;
• Leukocytes providing, as part of the immune system, a protective function;
• Hemoglobin, responsible for gas intercellular exchange;

An important indicator when checking blood for cancer is the ESR - the rate at which red blood cells settle.

A possible cancer process, as well as some deviations of a different nature, are determined if, in the decoding of the analysis:

• White blood cells are radically exceeded or reduced relative to the norm, their granular form is present;
• There are immature cellular structures;
• The indicators of the number of different cells do not correspond to the normative ones;
• The level of ESR is markedly increased;
• Hemoglobin is lowered;

With the existence of these deviations, this is completely does not necessarily mean that the patient has cancer, but serves as a signal to the doctor that additional testing is needed. If there are symptoms that indicate oncology, the patient is referred for in-depth procedures, for example, biochemistry with special markers showing cancer.

Biochemical analysis and markers for cancer

A feature of the development of cancerous malignant neoplasms is the production of special protein compounds by their cells. Based on the location of the tumor and its nature, the composition of specific proteins is different. According to such indicators, it is possible to determine the presence of cancer, since in healthy people such a protein, if present, is very small.

It is not possible to diagnose cancer by tumor markers alone - this is an unreliable method, but biochemical blood tests help to narrow down a possible diagnosis and lead to the identification of a real problem.

To get an accurate result and the decoding was reliable, it is necessary to pass not one test, but several, so that it is possible to track changes in dynamics. Sometimes not a specific result, but dynamic changes are decisive in the interpretation of the data obtained. In addition, multiple examinations make it possible to avoid randomness, which in the case of cancer can cost the patient a large number of nerve cells.

In biochemistry, they usually work with venous blood, although capillary blood can also be examined, it all depends on the specific technique. The analysis reveals several parameters of the alleged tumor. With a certain accuracy is established:

1. Where is cancer located - breast, liver, stomach, liver, lungs;
2. What is the maturity of the neoplasm;
3. The size of the focal area;

When receiving the first negative results, do not despair, since the probability of error in such a diagnosis is quite high.

In the table below we give the names of tumor markers and what kind of cancer they correspond to.

It is pointless to do biochemistry for everyone in a row - the results will be inaccurate and very confusing, therefore such blood tests are prescribed by a doctor in case of:

• The need to confirm the process of development of cancer cells;
• The existence of a risk of metastases coming from the main tumor;
• Monitoring the results of treatment;
• When determining the malignancy of cancer;

The set of indicators indicated in the table above is not exclusive. Modern science constantly offers new diagnostic methods with a wider range and increased accuracy.

Indicators of a blood test that detects cancer

If we talk about general or clinical blood test, then if a large number of immature leukocytes are found in it, this may indicate acute leukemia. Chronic leukemia is determined by the presence of a significant number of granulocytes, as granular leukocytes are called. Against the background of these processes, the analysis often shows a deficiency of other blood cells, which means anemia.

Biochemical analysis often reveals whether an already existing cancerous formation has caused a complication in other organs. A large number of complications in the form of metastases gives, for example, blood cancer, while biochemistry allows them to be quickly tracked.

How to prepare for a blood test for cancer

As we indicated above, such tests are not highly accurate, so the patient needs to reduce the likelihood of side adjustments by observing the correct preparation for the study.

List the basic rules for such training:

1. 15 days before blood sampling, you must stop taking systemic drugs and drugs.
2. Alcohol, fatty and fried foods are not recommended 2-3 days before the procedure.
3. On the day of delivery, you must not smoke.
4. Just an hour before taking blood for cancer, you should try to calm down and relax.
5. The procedure of such testing should not be combined with other therapeutic measures.

General rules also apply to tests, for example, a general and biochemical blood examination is carried out in the morning, on an empty stomach, the break from the last meal should be at least 8 hours. At the same time, it is allowed to drink a little pure water.

Skeptics argue in vain that in our country, and throughout the world, a malignant neoplasm hidden in the depths of the body cannot be cured. Diagnosis of cancer and other oncological processes, carried out at the stage of tumor inception, in the vast majority of cases provides a 100% treatment effect. Significant success can also be achieved when the neoplasm occurs, but has not yet spread through the lymphatic vessels or with the blood flow to distant organs. In a word, not everything is so bad if you know and do not forget about the existence of methods for early diagnosis of cancer.

First signals

Periodic annual (or 2 times a year) preventive examinations, in addition to admission to a particular work, provide for the identification of hidden diseases in order to start therapeutic measures in a timely manner. Oncopathology belongs precisely to this category, because at the initial stages, as a rule, it does not manifest itself in any way. There are no symptoms, a person continues to consider himself healthy, and then, like a bolt from the blue, he receives a diagnosis of cancer. In order to avoid such troubles, the list of mandatory tests (general blood and urine tests, biochemistry, ECG, fluorography) for certain categories of people (gender, age, predisposition, occupational hazard) includes additional studies that detect cancer in the early stages of its development:

• Special tests for cancer ();
• Examination by a gynecologist and a smear for a cytological examination (cervical cancer);
• Mammography (breast cancer);
• FGDS - fibrogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy (cancer of the stomach, duodenum 12);
• Computed tomography (CT), multislice computed tomography (MSCT);
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

However, it cannot be said that the expansion of cancer screening methods reduces the significance of traditional diagnostic measures or eliminates them altogether. Everyone knows that a complete blood count (CBC), although it does not belong to specific tests, is often the first to signal the abnormal behavior of body cells.

The general blood test changes little with cancer of various localizations. However, some indicators still lead the doctor to the idea of ​​the presence of a latent neoplastic process in the body even in the early stages of the disease:

1. Unexplained acceleration of ESR with a normal or elevated level of leukocytes;
2. Causeless decrease in hemoglobin levels, the development of anemia. Most often, this is observed in cancer of the stomach and intestines.
3. Acceleration of ESR, an increase in hemoglobin and the number of red blood cells (kidney cancer).

In cases of malignant blood diseases (leukemia), a general analysis will become the first and main marker. The need to start treatment as soon as possible for a disease that is popularly mistakenly called blood cancer (less often leukemia) will be indicated by some indicators of peripheral blood:

• Huge or unacceptably low number of individual elements;
• Exit to the periphery of young forms;
• Change in the percentage and absolute values ​​of leukocyte cells (shift of the formula);
• Decreased hemoglobin level;
• ESR acceleration.

In some cases, a general urine test is also able to detect cancer, however, this applies to tumors of certain localizations (kidneys, bladder, ureters). In the urine, hematuria (presence of blood), which may be insignificant, and the presence of atypical cells in the sediment. A similar picture requires clarification, for which a cytological examination of urine is used.

It is sometimes possible to suspect or even identify cancer by a biochemical blood test:

Thus, the diagnosis of cancer can begin not with some special specific examination, but with the usual tests that each of us takes during the annual preventive examination.

Targeted search

With targeted cancer screening, the approach is usually more rigorous. Traditional laboratory and instrumental diagnostic methods are shifting into the background, giving way to tests that detect cancer.

Blood test that detects cancer

Cancer can be detected using special laboratory tests called a blood test. tumor markers. It is taken when a doctor has doubts about the patient's impeccable health, as well as for a preventive purpose in the presence of a hereditary predisposition to cancer or other risk factors. Tumor markers are antigens that, at the oncological focus, begin to be actively produced by tumor cells, so their content in the blood increases significantly. A short list of the most common tumor markers that detect cancer of various localizations:

Thus, oncology is best shown by analysis for tumor markers, but one should not think that the number of laboratory tests is limited to the listed antigens, there are many more of them, perhaps they are more sensitive, but also more expensive, they are done in specialized laboratories, and, in addition, used to monitor the progress of treatment. Here are the most famous tests, information about other blood tests that can detect cancer can be found on our website in an article dedicated directly to a specific type of tumor.

Study of cells and tissues

Cytological diagnostics is a study of the cellular composition of various tissues and body fluids.

For this purpose, the material intended for research is placed on a glass slide, therefore it is called a smear, dried, then stained according to Romanovsky-Giemsa or Papanicolaou. To study in immersion oil, the preparation must be dry, therefore, after staining, the slide is dried again and viewed under a microscope at low and high magnification. Such an analysis makes it possible to detect oncological processes localized in many organs:

1. Scraping of the mucous membrane of the cervix, aspirates of the uterine cavity can be examined by the cytological method. The merit of cytology also lies in the fact that it is suitable for screening studies (early diagnosis of precancerous diseases of the cervix).
2. A biopsy of the breast and thyroid gland allows, at the early stages of the oncological process, to see cells that are not characteristic of these organs (atypia).
3. Puncture of lymph nodes - tumors of lymphoid tissue and cancer metastases of other localization.
4. Material from cavities (abdominal, pleural) helps to find a very insidious malignant tumor - mesothelioma.

Histology is one of the methods for diagnosing cancer.

A similar but still different method to cytology is histology. Taking pieces of tissue involves a pathomorphological study. Most often, it finally establishes the diagnosis and differentiates the tumor. However, if the cytological analysis is ready on the day of sampling and can be used for screening, then this does not happen with histology. The preparation of a histological preparation is a rather laborious process, requiring the use of specific equipment.

Quite informative in this regard, the study is considered immunohistochemistry, which in recent years has increasingly complemented traditional methods of cancer diagnosis. There is practically nothing impossible for immunohistochemical analyzes, they are able to identify various types of poorly and undifferentiated tumors. Unfortunately, laboratory equipment for immunohistochemistry is quite expensive, so not every medical institution can afford such a luxury. So far, only individual oncology centers and clinics, located, as a rule, in large cities of the Russian Federation, can do this.

Tools and high-tech equipment

Modern diagnostic methods allow you to look inside the human body and see the neoplasm in seemingly completely inaccessible places, however, with the existence of a variety of diagnostic techniques, there are painless, non-invasive and harmless procedures, and those that require the preparation of not only the organ of interest, but also the patient's psyche. Any penetration into the body may be accompanied by unpleasant sensations, which the patient has heard about, so he already begins to be afraid in advance.

However, you can’t help this matter, it’s necessary, but so that the fear is not premature and unnecessary, you should get a little acquainted with the main methods used to diagnose cancer:

Separate cancer location - separate search

The examination for cancer should be comprehensive, but this does not mean that the patient will randomly visit all the rooms in a row. Different neoplastic processes provide for specific diagnostic methods, that is, each search is carried out using tests that detect cancer of a certain localization. To make it clearer for the reader, we will give some examples.

Lungs' cancer

Diagnosis of tumors that are characterized by rapid growth and early metastasis is always difficult. But it is precisely to this category of neoplasia that it belongs, therefore, the annual fluorography does not always keep pace with the development of the tumor. Cancer of this localization at the initial stage is found only in a small part of patients, while stage 3-4 makes up more than half of the detected tumors. However, given the leading position of lung cancer in terms of prevalence and mortality, new diagnostic methods are being sought and old ones are actively used:

Most methods of examining the lungs are x-rays, which, unfortunately, detect cancer when symptoms have already appeared, and this is stage 3 or even 4.

Mammary cancer

More often affects women after 40, so it is not for nothing that in many countries the annual mammography is included in the number of mandatory cancer screenings. In addition to this X-ray method, in order not to miss the neoplastic process, other diagnostic methods are used, for example:

A lot for the prevention of breast cancer can be done by the consciousness and responsibility of the woman herself, who literally from school is taught to monitor her health, conduct self-examination and not postpone a visit to the doctor if a suspicious neoplasm is found in the gland.

Stomach cancer

Often the idea of ​​the presence of a tumor in the organs of the gastrointestinal tract is suggested by an ultrasound examination of the abdominal cavity, on the basis of which the diagnosis can only be questioned (neoplasm + fluid in the abdominal cavity). To clarify the picture and not to miss the patient is assigned:

bowel cancer

If a suspicion has crept in that a malignant tumor has struck, then, as with stomach cancer, the patient is initially offered:

• Take a stool test for occult blood and blood for tumor markers (CA-19-9);
• Examine the abdominal cavity with an ultrasound method (ultrasound);
• Undergo an X-ray examination for cancer (contrast with barium).

Depending on in which part of the intestine the tumor can be localized, other instrumental methods are prescribed:

Pancreas

Early diagnosis is always difficult. Characterized by meager symptoms (sometimes abdominal pain, some weight loss, discoloration of the skin), which a person usually refers to manifestations of a violation of the diet. Laboratory indicators (AlT, AST, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, amylase) do not change so significantly to think about the worst, and the tumor marker (CA-19-9) at the first stage may not react at all. In addition, not all people take biochemical tests regularly, so in most cases pancreatic cancer is detected when its detection is no longer difficult.

The examinations passed by the patient (ultrasound, CT, MRI, positron emission tomography (PET), based on the introduction of radioactive glucose into the vein, to which tumor cells will respond) do not give grounds for establishing the diagnosis of "cancer", for such a statement it is necessary to get some the amount of hard-to-reach tissue. As a rule, a similar task is performed by other methods:

Liver

They do not belong to the most common types of neoplasia that require screening studies. However, given the exorbitant addiction of some segments of the population to alcohol and the prevalence of hepatitis (viral hepatitis C is especially dangerous), contributing to the development of primary hepatocellular carcinoma, a few words should still be said about the early diagnosis of this pathology.

People at risk of forming an oncological process in the hepatic parenchyma should be on their guard and periodically, on their own initiative, undergo a minimum amount of research:

1. Take a blood test for biochemistry (AlT, AST) and tumor markers (AFP);
2. Carry out ultrasound diagnostics (ultrasound).

These methods will help detect a tumor in the liver, but will not determine the degree of its malignancy. Only a percutaneous fine-needle biopsy of the liver can solve such a problem - a procedure associated with a certain risk, after all, blood is deposited in the liver, and vascular damage can threaten with massive bleeding.

uterus and ovaries

Methods for diagnosing tumor diseases of the female genital area, perhaps the most famous of all existing:

• Gynecological examination in the mirrors;
• Cytological examination;
• Ultrasound diagnostics with abdominal and vaginal probes;
• Diagnostic separate curettage followed by histological analysis;
• Aspiration biopsy of the uterine cavity (cytology + histology);
• Colposcopy (cervical cancer);
• Hysteroscopy for the diagnosis of uterine cancer (if a neoplastic process is suspected, localized in the cervix, this study contraindicated).

1 - uterine cancer on ultrasound, fig. 2 - hysteroscopy, fig. 3 - MRI

Compared with diagnosis, the search for ovarian tumors causes certain difficulties, especially in the early stages of the development of the disease or in the case of metastatic lesions. The algorithm for diagnosing ovarian cancer consists of the following activities:

1. Bimanual rectovaginal or vaginal examination;
2. Ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs;
3. Blood test for hormones and tumor markers (CA-125, CEA, etc.);
4. Laparoscopy with biopsy;
5. CT, MRI.

When diagnosing ovarian cancer, such methods can be used that, it would seem, relate to completely different organs:

• Mammography;
• Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, mammary gland, thyroid gland;
• Gastroscopy, irrigoscopy;
• Chromocystoscopy;
• R-scopy of the chest.

This expansion of the examination is explained by the search for metastases of ovarian cancer.

Prostate

Clinically, at stages 1-2, it does not particularly manifest itself. More often makes men think about age and statistics, indicating a wide spread of neoplasia of this localization. Diagnostic search usually begins with screening studies:

If there are grounds, the patient is prescribed special diagnostic procedures:

• Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) or, even better, TRUS with color Doppler mapping;
• Multifocal needle biopsy is the most reliable method for diagnosing prostate cancer today.

kidneys

Diagnosis most often begins with routine laboratory tests. Already at the first stage of the search, a general blood test shows oncology: an increase in ESR, hemoglobin and the number of red blood cells (due to an increase in the production of erythropoietin) and a general urine test (the presence of blood and atypical cells in the sediment). Biochemical indicators do not stand aside either: the concentration of calcium and transaminase, which are particularly sensitive not only to liver tumors, but also quickly respond to tumors of other parenchymal organs.

Of considerable importance in determining the presence of a tumor process in the kidney are:

1. Ultrasound diagnostics (ultrasound of the abdominal cavity);
2. R-graphy of the kidney with contrast;
3. Retrograde pyelography (image of the renal pelvis filled with contrast through a catheter inserted into the ureter);
4. Targeted biopsy under ultrasound control (morphological examination);
5. Selective renal angiography, which is good at detecting renal cell carcinoma, but is almost useless for tumors of the pelvis.

When diagnosing kidney cancer, there is no hope for tumor markers. True, sometimes they rent REA, but it does not really matter in this regard.

We may not have been able to recall all the methods for diagnosing cancer of various localizations and talk about them in detail, because each medical institution has its own arsenal of equipment and staff of specialists, moreover, it is not always necessary to resort to expensive procedures, such as MRI. Much can be shown by general tests, biochemical tests, x-ray studies prescribed for preventive purposes. Early diagnosis in most cases depends on the person himself, his attitude to his health. You should not be annoyed if at any appointment the doctor requires the results of fluorography or gynecological examination data, he is simply trying to once again remind that our health is in our hands.