Imaging and Cancer Treatments
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Jackie Clemente
Abstract
Imaging tests enable doctors to view the inside of the body. Forms of energy, such as radioactive particles, x-rays, magnetic fields, and sound waves, are sent throughout the body. These energy patterns are changed by body tissue to form images. These images provide doctors with information about your body and how your internal organs look and function. This is how diseases such as cancer can be detected (1).
Uses
Imaging tests are incredibly useful, especially for detecting and treating cancer. Even if a person is asymptomatic, imaging can be implemented during the early stages of cancer to locate a tumor or mass. If the person does show symptoms, these tests help to determine if the symptoms are caused by cancer or a different disease. Imaging also assists in determining if a biopsy is needed. The stage of the cancer can also be determined. Imaging tests can show if the size, shape, or location of the tumor has changed. Cancer treatment can be planned using these tests. They can show what areas need radiation therapy beams (1).
Types
There are various types of imaging scans. These include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, computed tomography (CT) scans, positron emission tomography (PET) scans, mammograms, nuclear medicine scans, x-rays, radiographic tests, and ultrasounds. These tests may depend on numerous factors, such as the location of the tumor, what type of tumor it is, if a biopsy is needed, risks, side effects, benefits, age, sex, health, cost, and preference (1).
Who Performs Them?
Doctors and health professionals perform imaging tests, as well as certified technologists. These tests can take place in hospitals, doctors’ offices, clinics, or imaging centers. In bigger hospitals or medical centers, imaging tests are usually performed in the departments of radiology or nuclear medicine. A specific type of doctor who specializes in imaging is a radiologist. Radiologists read and interpret the imaging (1).
If you have received a cancer diagnosis, remember the bigger image - you are not alone. With the help of imaging tests, you can be treated and cared for.
References
[1] American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Imaging (Radiology) Tests for Cancer. Retrieved from www.cancer.org website: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/diagnosis-staging/tests/imaging-tests/imaging-radiology-tests-for-cancer.html
Comments