Cancer Diagnosis Costa Rica

There are many new tools that allow for a more accurate cancer diagnosis, the most common diagnostic methods include:

Biopsy: A biopsy is the removal of a small piece of tissue for laboratory examination.

Endoscopy: A flexible plastic tube with a tiny camera on the end is inserted into body cavities and organs, allowing the physician to view the suspicious area.

Diagnostic imaging: Types of imaging methods include:

• X-rays are the most common way doctors make pictures of the inside of the body. Specialists can spot abnormal areas that may indicate the presence of cancer.
• CAT scan (computerized axial tomography), uses radiographic beams to create detailed computerized pictures taken with a specialized X-ray machine. It is more precise than a standard X-ray, and provides a clearer image.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnetic field to create detailed computer images of the body’s soft tissue, large blood vessels and major organs. MRI is an accurate but expensive process, and patients must lie completely still during the procedure for best results.
• Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to determine if a suspicious lump is solid or fluid. These sound waves are transmitted into the body and converted into a computerized image.

Blood tests: some tumors release substances called tumor markers, which can be detected in the blood. A blood test for prostate cancer determines the amount of prostate specific antigen (PSA). Higher than normal PSA levels can indicate cancer. Recently, a blood test for ovarian cancer, known as CA-125, has become available. Blood work in combination with the above tests will confirn the diagnosis.