How to get tested for oncology tests. What tests show oncology: laboratory diagnostics

Oncological diseases are in second place in the statistics of human mortality after cardiovascular pathologies. This is mainly due to the late appeal of sick people for medical help. Diagnosis of such diseases in the initial stages is very important for the effectiveness of treatment. There are many tests that detect cancer or even a predisposition to it, which helps to detect malignant processes in time and take all necessary measures to get rid of them.

Symptoms required for a cancer test appointment

Despite its wide prevalence, it is sometimes very difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of oncological diseases. Their development is influenced by bad habits, hereditary characteristics, exposure to ultraviolet and other radiation, reduced immunity, the presence of chronic diseases and other factors. It is impossible to say for sure whether this pathology will develop in any particular person, but its initial manifestations can be determined by laboratory methods.

Many types of tumors do not manifest themselves as obvious signs of the disease until they reach a large size and do not germinate into neighboring organs. People may have common symptoms that can be associated with overwork or stress: decreased performance, the appearance of recurring pain in one place, unexplained weight loss, nausea, or wounds on the mucous membranes or skin that do not heal for a long time.

Not everyone needs to take tests to determine oncological manifestations. For their appointment, certain indications are needed:

1. Diagnosed cancer in blood relatives (parents, children, siblings).
2. Benign tumor processes (fibroids, cysts in the kidneys, ovaries, mammary glands).
3. The appearance of symptoms characteristic of cancer.
4. Healed cases of neoplasms.

Before undergoing this examination, you need to visit a doctor and use it to determine the organs most at risk, undergo an external examination with special attention to moles, enlarged lymph nodes, changes in the structure of the skin.

What tests that detect cancer are usually prescribed today?

Almost all visits to the doctor are not complete without taking tests. In order to suspect the development of malignant tumors, you need to donate blood for the following studies:

• • general analysis;
  • biochemical analysis;
  • analysis to detect antigens to cancer cells ();
  • analysis for genetic predisposition.

Laboratory tests for oncology in Israel are performed on the latest equipment and using modern reagents from key American, European and, of course, Israeli manufacturers.

An analysis that determines the total number of blood cells, cannot accurately indicate the appearance of cancer cells, but some signs may indicate this condition. These include:

• violation of the leukocyte formula with a predominance of immature cell forms;
• drop in hemoglobin and platelet count;
• high rate of sedimentation of red blood cells - erythrocytes.

This is especially true for the pathology of the hematopoietic organs. For research, capillary blood is usually taken from a finger. You need to take this analysis in the morning on an empty stomach, so as not to distort the picture of the blood. No additional preparation for this analysis is required.

Next, an examination is assigned, with the help of which the performance of the internal organs of their functions is determined. So in biochemical blood test signs of neoplasms may manifest a violation of the following values:

• quantitative content of total protein;
• increased levels of creatinine and urea;
• excessive value of ALT and AST enzymes;
• growth of alkaline phosphatase;
• the cholesterol level is less than the permissible norms;
• an increased value of the concentration of potassium with a normal amount of sodium.

Certain levels of detectable substances may indicate the location of the tumor in the body. For example, with the development of pathology in the liver, the cholesterol index will fall and the concentration of its enzymes will increase. A blood sample is obtained from a vein. Its results may be affected by the intake of certain medications, alcohol, fatty or protein foods, intense physical activity the day before, and the wrong technique of taking. At least 8 hours must pass from the last meal to the blood sampling, so biochemical parameters are usually determined in the morning before breakfast.

Don't waste time searching uselessly for inaccurate cancer treatment prices

* Only on condition of obtaining data on the patient's disease, the clinic representative will be able to calculate the exact price for the treatment.

Blood sampling to detect tumor markers for certain types of cancer is carried out after identifying any suspicion of this disease. Some of these substances are absent in the body of a healthy person, while others may be in very small quantities. Pathological processes in certain organs are responsible for the growth of their indicators. However, some types of tumor markers can appear when several types of tissues are affected. For example, the CA125 protein is determined at, appendages. An increase in any of the tumor markers requires further additional examination. By itself, this analysis cannot reveal the prevalence of the process, its stage and localization. For the determination of these substances, no preliminary preparation is required. Blood from a vein can be taken at any time of the day, but it is advisable to do this 2-3 hours after eating. Only improper storage and violation of the research technique can distort the result.

Genetic analysis for susceptibility to cancer is carried out only in certain groups of people. This method is used to identify cases of hereditary predisposition to certain types of disease. However, its results cannot accurately predict whether or not a given person will develop malignant tumors during their lifetime. They only display their probability. Preparation for material sampling is standard: do not take drugs, alcohol or other toxic drugs, do not eat immediately before donating blood, try to avoid excessive physical or nervous tension.

A separate place in the detection of cancer cells has laboratory tissue analysis obtained during diagnostic punctures, scrapings or biopsies. In such cases, tissue pieces are taken directly from the pathological focus. After taking the material, an assessment of the structure of their cellular structure is carried out and a doctor's conclusion is issued on the presence or absence of signs of malignancy.

Tests that may be misused by unscrupulous doctors

Some commercial clinics may prescribe examinations to their clients that are inconsistent with the picture of the disease and common examination practice. Most often this is done with the aim of making more money from patients' problems. So, people can be instilled with unreasonable suspicions that they have cancer. In such cases, most people will find the financial opportunity to undergo many paid examinations to ensure their own health.

You are not sure about the correctness of the diagnosis and the treatment prescribed for you? Video consultation of a world-class specialist will help dispel your doubts. This is a real opportunity to take advantage of the qualified help of the best of the best and at the same time not overpay for anything.

So, tests for all common types of oncomarkers, genetic studies, computed and magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, consultations of related specialists without the necessary indications can be prescribed. Since all these examinations are carried out on a paid basis, this provides a direct benefit to the owners of such laboratories and clinics, so be especially careful and soberly assess the situation, without referring to emotions!

Signs of cancer in a blood test

Only a doctor with sufficient experience and specialization can determine the risk of developing malignant processes in the body based on the results of blood tests. By themselves, changes in blood cells or the values ​​of various substances can be the result of many diseases or natural processes in the body. Any doctor's doubts or existing signs of ill health in the analyzes require a careful approach and further comprehensive examination. To do this, ultrasound, x-ray, instrumental examinations can be prescribed, and after receiving their conclusions, you can draw some conclusions, make diagnoses and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

conclusions

Of course, modern methods of human examination play an important role in the early detection of many diseases, including cancer. It is important to understand that at this stage in the development of medicine, many oncological pathologies are no longer so terrible and can be successfully treated with drugs, dosed radiation or surgery. Many doctors can tell you how to self-examine yourself for neoplasms and explain their distinguishing features. The main thing for patients with such diseases is not to give up and not refuse the proposed treatment.

What is a screening program?

Screening is a mass survey of the population aimed at identifying risk groups for a particular disease, or its presence in the early stages - a widespread practice in the world. This approach is widespread in the world and is especially important in cases where timely diagnosis of the disease is crucial for successful treatment, for example, in oncology.

Currently, the effectiveness of screening programs for the early detection of breast, ovarian and prostate cancer has been scientifically confirmed. Diagnosis is carried out using laboratory blood tests of people at risk. In relation to these diseases, these are women of all ages and men over 40 years of age.

Who runs the screening program?

Department of Health of the city of Moscow and the Moscow Clinical Research Center named after. S.A. Loginova DZM.

When?

Where is the screening program carried out?

You can donate blood for analysis in some city clinics from 8.00 to 14.00.

Medical organizations of the DZM have been holding such events for several years now, deploying mobile medical stations in various districts of the city and in places of public events. For example, in March of this year, a similar screening was already carried out in city clinics. More than 16,000 people were examined in two days, and in the fall of last year, a large-scale influenza vaccination campaign was carried out near metro stations and in the My Documents public service centers (at that time, almost 240,000 citizens were vaccinated at mobile points).

Unfortunately, not all residents of the capital find time to visit the clinic and preventive health checks. Therefore, the Moscow Health Department is doing everything possible to create the most convenient conditions for the residents of the capital for preventive examinations.

Who can take tests?

All citizens with permanent registration in the city of Moscow are invited to undergo a FREE diagnosis for the most common oncological diseases every Saturday from July 7 to September 22

What tests can be done?

Women of any age (over 18) can have a blood test for predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer (BRCA1, BRCA2). Men over 40 years of age - a PSA test (PSA) for signs of prostate cancer (prostate).

Why do it?

Breast cancer, ovarian cancer in women and prostate cancer in men are among the most common cancers. At the same time, the detection of these types of cancer at the initial stage makes it possible to completely cure. The most effective way to establish a predisposition to these types of cancer, or the presence of their signs, is a blood test for the presence of mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes (from the English BReast CANcer - breast cancer) and PSA (PSA) - a prostate specific antigen, an elevated level of which indicates a probable development of prostate cancer.

What does diagnostics include?

Diagnostics to identify predisposition factors for oncological diseases - prostate cancer for men, breast cancer and ovarian cancer for women - is carried out using a venous blood test. The analysis is performed FREE OF CHARGE by qualified medical personnel of medical organizations of the Moscow state healthcare system in compliance with all sanitary and hygienic requirements.

How would this happen?

To pass the analysis, you must have a passport with you and give consent to the processing of personal data (provide a reliable way of feedback). The analysis is carried out by taking blood from a vein.

How to prepare for analysis?

Women: a blood test for BRCA1 and BRCA2 (determines the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer) does not require prior preparation.

Men: PSA blood test for predisposition to prostate cancer:

• Two days before the analysis, it is advisable to refrain from sexual activity.
• Half an hour before blood sampling, physical overexertion should be excluded.

Is the accuracy of the results guaranteed?

To obtain the most accurate data, the screening study will be carried out according to a standardized procedure in compliance with modern requirements. This will eliminate the influence of random factors on the results of the analyzes.

Laboratory studies will be carried out on the same type of equipment, using the same reagents and with strict observance of routine quality control procedures at all stages of the technological process.

How will blood tests be carried out after the test?

Only large laboratories equipped with fully automated equipment, using modern information technologies to process the data obtained and capable of performing screening tests in automatic mode have the technological capabilities to perform large volumes of research in the mass examination of the population.

There are such laboratories in medical organizations of the Moscow City Health Department.

How long to wait for test results?

The time of the study can take up to 1 month, because it is during screening laboratory examinations that the processing of the results obtained takes a fairly long time.

The results will be reported to the specified e-mail address or (optionally) to the clinic at the place of attachment.

The confidentiality of the personal information received and the results of the analyzes obtained is ensured in accordance with applicable law.

What to do after receiving the results?

In the event that the results of the study show deviations from the norm, the patient will be invited for a consultation at the polyclinic (men) or the Clinic for Women's Health of the Moscow Clinical Research Center. S.A. Loginova DZM (women).

Remember: detection of cancer in the early stages gives a high probability of a complete cure!

Recently, oncological diseases have become very common. The causes of pathologies are different. This is mainly a genetic predisposition, poor quality food, poor ecology. If cancer is suspected, experts recommend visiting the hospital and undergoing a diagnosis.

How to get tested for cancer? Which doctor should be consulted? These and many other questions are asked by people who suspect oncology in themselves. First of all, you should sign up for a consultation with a specialist. A doctor who diagnoses and treats cancer is called an oncologist. How can I be tested for cancer during the examination? The doctor will conduct an examination, prescribe laboratory tests. If necessary, the doctor will recommend an ultrasound, computed tomography, mammography and other diagnostic procedures, depending on the expected location of the tumor. The results of laboratory tests are of great importance, since you can check for the presence of cancer in the early stages by passing a routine analysis for tumor markers. After all these events, the specialist decides on the need for a biopsy. During the procedure, a small piece of tissue is taken for histological examination. This method, according to many experts, is the most accurate method of diagnosing. A biopsy reveals which cells the tumor consists of. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so it does not cause any particular inconvenience. After all these manipulations, it will become clear whether it is present or not.

How often should you be examined?

Experts note that at very early stages, when the size of the neoplasm is small and it does not poison the body with its decay products, a false diagnosis can be made. If the problem continues to bother, you can re-examine. Since you can get tested for cancer during a routine check-up, it is advisable to visit doctors once a year at the age of forty, and after - twice a year (in the absence of complaints). Preventive examinations will reveal pathologies at stages that can be treated.

Why is diagnostics needed?

A timely examination for oncology can not only save human life, but also prevent a decrease in its quality. That is why experts recommend undergoing examinations and taking tests regularly. In addition, it should be taken into account that diagnostics significantly increases the effectiveness of therapeutic measures in case of such a need. Thanks to the latest advances in the field of medicine, the detection of pathologies is carried out as quickly and accurately as possible. Patients only need to pay attention to the state of their health.

Where can you get tested for cancer?

In addition to ordinary clinics and hospitals, there are specialized cancer centers. Almost every major city in Russia has such institutions. In Moscow, for example, examinations for oncology are carried out at the European Clinic (SPC of Modern Oncology and Surgery, Tulskaya metro station), City Oncological Hospital No. 62 (Tushinskaya metro station), Soyuz Multidisciplinary Clinic (Sokolniki, Elektrozavodskaya metro station) and others centers. Where can children be tested for cancer? In 2011, a specialized scientific oncology center of federal significance was opened in Moscow. This clinic is considered the most technologically equipped and largest in Europe.

Who should get tested?

First of all, it is recommended to visit an oncologist for people who fall into the "risk group". These include women and men over 55 years of age, who often drink alcohol and smoke, who are overweight. Those who abuse fast food, stay in the solarium and the sun, without using sunscreen, should also undergo an examination. Inspection is also recommended for people with low physical activity. Equally important is hereditary (genetic) predisposition. If one of the relatives is diagnosed with cancer, then you should pay close attention to your state of health and regularly visit a specialist.

What is a survey?

A precancerous condition is considered a harbinger of the development of a malignant neoplasm. It must be identified in a timely manner. Today, this is more than possible, since you can get tested for cancer both in a regular clinic and in a specialized center. For more accurate detection of pathology, the most modern equipment is currently used, highly qualified specialists work. The examination usually lasts one or two days. It is carried out on an outpatient basis under the close supervision of a physician. In accordance with the results of the examination, the patient receives complete information about the state of his health. The specialist will also answer all your questions. If necessary, treatment is immediately prescribed, the patient receives prescriptions and recommendations. How much does it cost to get tested for cancer? Prices for the study depend on the list of tests and diagnostic measures recommended by the doctor. On average, a general examination costs from 1.5 to 3 thousand dollars.

What tests should be taken for oncology?

Currently, effective diagnostic methods have been developed for almost all common types of cancer. In particular, the doctor may order a mammogram. This is a breast study. To detect a malignant neoplasm in the uterus, a cytological smear analysis is recommended. To diagnose the pathology of the large intestine, the stool is examined with an occult blood test. General diagnosis of oncology may include several activities. In particular, it is recommended to donate blood (detailed analysis), undergo MRI, computed tomography (positron emission), colonoscopy and gastroscopy, biopsy. The specialist may also order a bone marrow aspiration and laparoscopic examination. Ultrasound is of particular importance in the diagnosis of oncology. This procedure often gives an idea of ​​the dynamics of the development of pathology. The biopsy is usually performed under CT or ultrasound guidance. Additionally, in many cases, cytogenetic, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and thoracoscopy (biopsy and visual examination of the chest organs) are prescribed.

What does a blood test give?

In oncology, the results of a laboratory test can be ambiguous. However, a blood test is required. A detailed analysis allows you to determine the level of tumor markers for each organ, to establish the presence or absence of cancer cells in the body. Thanks to all the above measures, the specialist establishes the degree and nature of damage to systems and organs, as well as the presence of foci and metastases. As a result, the necessary treatment regimen is selected for each patient individually.

Diagnosis of oncology of the chest and gastrointestinal tract

One of the most common cancers today is lung cancer. If you suspect the development of a tumor, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. How to get tested for lung cancer? What diagnostic measures can be prescribed by a specialist? The examination includes an instrumental examination of the chest - X-ray. Pictures allow you to see the presence of a node or neoplasm. Pathological changes of a small size invisible on the radiograph are recognized during computed tomography. If the patient has a cough accompanied by sputum, then it is examined under a microscope. A necessary study is a biopsy of the lung tissue. It can be carried out in various ways. In particular, a doctor can take a fragment of lung tissue during bronchoscopy - checking the condition of the lungs using a special thin tube (bronchoscope) with a light source. The bronchoscope is inserted directly into the organ cavity through the larynx. A biopsy can also be performed with an open method. Thoracoscopy is performed through a small incision made at the base of the neck. The doctor inserts instruments into the mediastinum and takes the tissues of the lymph nodes for analysis. How to check for a suspected malignant neoplasm in this area of ​​the gastrointestinal tract, a colonoscopy is prescribed. Using a special probe, the doctor examines the inner surface of the intestine and assesses its condition.

Conclusion

The opinions of specialists about the preventive diagnosis of oncological pathologies are very ambiguous. significantly reduce mortality among the general population. This is mainly due to the ability to diagnose the early stages of pathology using modern equipment. At the same time, there is a high probability of prescribing adequate treatment, ridding the patient of the neoplasm. However, there is also evidence that in the process of preventive research, quite a lot of benign neoplasms are detected. As a result, invasive diagnostic methods are used, in which patients are exposed to unnecessary risk. Today there is no unequivocal and precise answer to the question of the need for preventive examinations. Currently, attempts are being made to scientifically substantiate the advantages of each existing method and to establish for which groups it is necessary to carry out screening activities in the first place.

Tumor markers are a group of chemicals produced by the body in increased amounts in oncological diseases. They are secreted both by the tumor itself and by the tissues that are nearby with it. Modern medicine knows about twenty significant tumor markers that help to correctly determine the localization of cancer.

PREPARATION

It is preferable to withstand 4 hours after the last meal, there are no mandatory requirements. You can drink water without restrictions, preferably without gas. On the eve of taking a blood test for oncology, it is necessary to refrain from taking alcoholic beverages, heavy physical exertion.

What are the tests for oncology

Markers help to detect cancer before symptoms appear. They rise about 6-9 months before the onset of primary metastases. It is worth taking an annual cancer test for people at risk. Men need to take PSA, which is a precursor to prostate cancer. This is especially true for people over 40 years of age. CA 125 has a high degree of sensitivity. It indicates testicular cancer in men and ovarian cancer in women. SCC shows cancer of the cervix, as well as respiratory, nasopharyngeal, and ear cancers.

Another female oncomarker is HE4, which indicates cancer in the ovary and endometrium. When screening for breast cancer, CA-15-3 is prescribed. This is a highly specific test for breast cancer. Elevated levels of the oncomarker CA 15.3 may indicate a tumor of the mammary glands and signal the need to be examined by a mammologist oncologist.

There are a number of other blood tests for oncology, the list and prices of which can be found in the table below.

WHAT ONCOMARKERS SHOW

In the diagnosis of oncological diseases, the following types of tests for oncology have the greatest diagnostic significance: CA 19.9 (shows cancer of the stomach and pancreas), CA 15-3 (tumor marker for breast cancer), CA 125 (marker for ovarian cancer), PSA (cancer diagnostics prostate), b-2 microglobulin (marker for lymphoma and multiple myeloma), Cyfra 21-1 (marker for non-small cell lung cancer), AFP (liver cancer), etc.

LIST AND COST OF SERVICES

Picture 1. WHAT ONCOMARKERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR WHAT

WARNING!
It should be remembered that a slight increase in the concentration of many oncomarkers in a blood test is possible with various benign and inflammatory diseases, physiological conditions. So that patients are not in a hurry to make a diagnosis for themselves, we consider it useful to recall that the concentration of tumor markers often increases during pathological processes localized in various organs, during pregnancy, and also in a certain age period (menopause, menopause). Therefore, the detection of an increased content of one or another oncomarker is not yet the basis for the diagnosis of a malignant tumor, but serves as a reason for further examination.

Delivery of tumor markers in Moscow

The doctor has prescribed to undergo a cancer screening or do you want to donate blood for a tumor marker of your own free will? We offer to use the services of the laboratory of our clinic on Kutuzovsky Prospekt, within walking distance from the metro stations of the same name and the Moscow Central Circle. Check out the opening hours and address.

• Treatment room - open from 10-00 to 20-30 weekdays, from 10-00 to 17-30 - weekends (Saturday and Sunday), as well as holidays. In order to save your time, it is strongly recommended to pre-register for the delivery of this type of analysis. Blood is taken from women and men.

Oncomarkers - action!

Want to get discounts on blood donation for tumor markers? The action in our clinic provides an opportunity to pass these indicators at reasonable prices. Take advantage of our special offer - oncology tests with discounts from 10% when submitting from 2 of any indicators. Fast and cheap!

Timely noticed symptoms and complex diagnostics make it possible to increase the effectiveness of treatment, and in many cases to refute the diagnosis. At the first suspicion of cancer, you should contact an oncologist and get tested.

When Can You Detect Cancer?

Oncological diseases are able to stay in the body for a long time without provoking specific signs. Most often, an early process is detected during a preventive examination or by chance, when passing clinical tests for other purposes.

Cancer in the first stage is detected in only 25-30% of cases.

To exclude cancerous formations, it is enough to undergo a complex of diagnostic procedures at least once a year.

On World Cancer Day, some medical institutions provide the opportunity to check the entire body for the formation of a malignant tumor for free.

What methods can detect cancer

Cancer diagnosis is a complex and multifactorial process. To detect oncological pathology, different groups of diagnostic methods are used:

The selection of the necessary diagnostic procedures in each case is performed by the doctor during the preliminary consultation of the patient. During a preventive examination of the body, a standard set of procedures is prescribed.

How is a comprehensive diagnosis of the whole organism

In order to examine the entire body for the presence of a malignant formation, it is required to pass general tests and take x-rays of all organs.

The test allows you to identify pathology even in the absence of symptoms.

Detection of a cancerous tumor at an early stage ensures the success of treatment in 90-95% of cases.

To check for cancer, determine where the tumor is located and at what stage, a series of examinations is prescribed.

The diagnostic program standardly includes a consultation with a specialized doctor, blood and tumor tissue tests, genetic studies and tomography.

In order to diagnose a pathological neoplasm, ultrasound can also be prescribed. However, the procedure is effective only in cases where the tumor has reached a certain size.

Ultrasound is not used to diagnose cancer in the initial stages.

This method allows you to establish the exact dimensions of the overgrown tumor, as well as determine the structure and contours of the formation. Often an ultrasound-guided biopsy is performed.