Cancer is a complicated disease that requires multiple tests to diagnose it accurately. Among all the tests, blood tests play a crucial role in identifying markers, assessing organ functions and guiding the further diagnostics process. Here, we will learn about the various tests used to diagnose cancer, explaining the way they work and how they assess the health of the patient.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) – CBC is one of the most common tests in medical assessments, including cancer diagnosis. It measures many components of blood, including –
- Red Blood Cells- A low blood count may indicate anaemia could be a symptom of blood cancer.
- White blood Cells- An abnormal number of immature white cells can indicate blood cancers such as leukaemia.
- Platelets- Other cancers may be diagnosed with an abnormal platelet count.
While the CBC test cannot diagnose cancer, it can identify abnormalities present in blood that can lead to the risk of cancer.
- Tumour Maker Test- Tumour markers are substances in the body that are produced in higher quantities when cancer cells are present. Tumour markers can be found in the blood, urine, stool or tumour tissue. Common tumour markers are:
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) – Increased PSA levels in blood may suggest prostate cancer.
- CA 125- This indicates ovarian cancer.
- Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)- This shows colorectal or other cancers.
- Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) – The increased levels indicate liver and some testicular cancers.
Although tumour maker tests are useful in providing information, they can also increase due to non-cancerous conditions. Therefore, image studies and biopsies are conducted for proper cancer diagnosis.
- Blood protein Test (Electrophoresis)-
Electrophoresis is a process that identifies proteins in your blood. It can help diagnose multiple myeloma, a cancer type that affects plasma cells. This test detects abnormal proteins produced by myeloma cells.
- Circulating tumour cells-
These tests find cancer cells that have split away from the parent tumour and circulate within the blood supply. They help in early detection and monitoring of cancers such as breast cancer, colon cancer and prostate cancer.
- Liver Function test (LFT)-
Liver function tests measure the enzymes and proteins in the blood to determine the functioning of the liver. The abnormal results might reflect damage to the liver due to metastatic cancer, where cancer cells have spread to the liver or primarily liver cancer.
Biochemical tests evaluate blood chemistry to determine how the body’s organs work properly. Increased levels of some substances can indicate cancer.
- Calcium: Increased levels may lead to bone cancer or metastasized cancer into bones.
- Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH): It is commonly increased with many cancers including lymphoma.
Blood tests limitations in diagnosing cancer
Though blood tests are an essential component of the diagnosis process, these tests have limitations too. Many cancers do not produce detectable markers in the blood, mainly at early stages. Moreover, abnormal results may not necessarily indicate cancer- such indications are common in infections, inflammations or other conditions.
Why is Ujala Cygnus counted among the ‘best cancer hospitals in India’?
Ujala Cygnus Hospital is one of the best cancer hospitals in India, consisting of the best oncology departments which comprise a team of expert medical staff, including experienced oncologists. The oncology department at Ujala Cygnus features a broad range of exclusive cancer care services designed according to the needs of the patients. It is one of the best lung cancer hospital in Haldwani known for providing the best liver treatments to liver cancer patients.
Ujala Cygnus is among the best breast cancer hospitals in Haldwani, giving holistic cancer care. It provides innovative and best treatment that includes early detection of breast cancer, surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and other supportive services in managing complicated breast cancer disease. We are the best blood cancer hospital in Haldwani, providing the finest oncologists with an incredibly committed support group for dealing with blood cancer.
Being the best cancer hospital in Haldwani, Ujala Cygnus comprises state-of-the-art infrastructure with the latest amenities, advanced equipment, innovative ICUs and CCUs, modern diagnostics units, an in-house pharmacy and 24/7 emergency services.
Conclusion
Blood tests are the most important part of the cancer diagnosing process. If you notice any symptoms or have a family history of cancer, consult an oncologist for appropriate screening and further treatment. Visit the best cancer hospital in Haldwani for the best treatment and precision for cancer.
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