Oral Cancer
Medical Tests & Diagnosis
Oral cancer symptoms can be similar with other medical conditions and
only a doctor can establish a correct diagnosis. The diagnosis procedure
involves a certain number of steps which include:
Anamnesis (detailed medical review of past health state):
One of the first steps in establishing an oral cancer diagnosis is a detailed
and complex medical review of a patient's past health problems and general
health state, family medical history, oral cancer risk factors (especially
smoking habits, tobacco and alcohol use), and symptoms.
Physical examination
During a physical examination, the doctor
examines the oral cavity and pharynx, the face, neck, and lips looking
for signs of oral cancer. The doctors looks for any possible lump, abnormal
or discolored tissue, or sores.
Imaging techniques
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Computed Tomography: This imaging
test is similar with an x-ray test, and creates a detailed,
cross-sectional image of the body. This test can identify
abnormal mass tissues.
A CT scan is usually performed in two steps for a better diagnosis
outcome:
1). First, the targeted area is scanned without a contrast
agent.
2). Second, the targeted area is scanned after a contrast
agent was administrated.
In patients that suffer from oral cancer, this technique is
used to localize metastases.
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): An
MRI is an advanced technique that uses radio waves and strong
magnets to reveal a complete image of a targeted area of the
body. The energy from the radio waves is absorbed by the tissues
and then released into a pattern that allows the cancer to
be detected and diagnosed. This technique is also used to
establish whether or not the cancer has spread, and to visualize
its location within the body.
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Ultrasonography: Ultrasound imaging is a medical
technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create an interior
image of the body on a special computer screen. This image is formed
from the echoes of the sound waves on the surface of the organs. Abnormal
tissue masses and organs reflect sound waves differently. This test
involves a device called transducer, that is placed on the upper part
of the abdomen, and a computer that translates this sound into an
image. Ultrasound imaging is a safe, noninvasive and fast test that
can detect tumors.
- Endoscopy: This is a minimally invasive, painless diagnostic
procedure used to visualize interior surfaces of certain organs and
cavities. During this procedure, a flexible tube, called an endoscope,
is inserted into the body in order to provide a clear image of the targeted
area. This procedure is used to investigate tissues within the pharynx
area which cannot be visualize during a normal examination.
- Biopsy:
This is a painless medical procedure that removes a certain amount of
tissue for a microscopic examination. This procedure allows the pathologist
to establish the nature of the cells and determine whether they are
cancerous or not, and the stage of the cancer. In some cases, the doctor
might perform a scalpel biopsy. A scalpel is a thin, straight surgical
knife used in dissection and surgery. This type of procedure is performed
under anesthesia to reduce patient discomfort.
Article by Alina Morrow, MS
Medical Writer
OmniMedicalSearch.com
Page Covers: What are the tests for oral (mouth) cancer?
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