If you are experiencing symptoms related to a particular type of cancer you should talk to your doctor. You will likely have a number of tests. Initially your doctor will give you a physical examination to check for any potential signs of cancer. You may also have a blood test to assess your general health. Your doctor may then refer you to more specialised tests to confirm if you have cancer. The tests you have will depend on your individual situation and the type of cancer you may have.
Common imaging tests
What is an imaging test?
Imaging tests are used to take pictures of the inside of your body. They can be used to:
- look for cancer in its early stage and a person has no symptoms
- look for a lump (tumour) if a person has symptoms and predict if it is likely to be cancer
- show where the tumour is and how far it has spread
- plan treatment
- see how treatment is working
- find out if cancer has come back after treatment.
MRI
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to take detailed cross-sectional pictures of the body.
CT scan
A CT (computerised tomography) scan is a medical test that helps diagnose medical conditions including cancer.
PET scan
A PET (positron emission tomography) scan is a type of imaging test that is used to diagnose certain diseases including cancer.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound scan is a medical procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create a picture of part of the inside of the body.
Mammogram
A mammogram is an x-ray of breast tissue that can find changes too small to be felt during a physical examination.
Other diagnostic tests
Depending on your symptoms and the part of your body which is affected you might have other diagnostic tests.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is the main test used to investigate or diagnose bowel cancer.
Colposcopy
A colposcopy is a procedure used to look closely at the cervix, vagina and vulva to help locate changed or abnormal cells and see what they look like.
Endoscopy
An endoscopy (also called a gastroscopy, oesophagoscopy or upper endoscopy) allows your doctor to see inside your digestive tract to examine the lining.
Understanding your FOBT results
A faecal occult blood test (FOBT) can detect minimal amounts of blood in your bowel motions.
Where can I get reliable information and support?
Being diagnosed with cancer and waiting for further test results can be stressful. You can call Cancer Council 13 11 20 for information and support.