If a physician suspects that a patient has colon cancer, the diagnosis can be confirmed – or ruled out – through several specialized tests. To start the diagnostic process, a physician will typically perform a medical history and physical exam. Both of these tests are usually done in the same visit. A medical history is simply a verbal discussion of a patient’s symptoms and previous health conditions; a physical exam allows the physician to check for any immediately detectable signs of cancer. The physical exam usually involves a manual assessment of a patient’s abdomen as well as a digital rectal exam, during which a physician inserts a gloved finger into the patient’s rectum to check for the presence of palpable polyps.
What tests are used to diagnose colon cancer?
If the results of a patient’s medical history and physical exam suggest that colon cancer is a possible diagnosis, more advanced tests can then be performed. These include:
Fecal occult blood test
This is a take-home test that checks for the presence of blood in a patient’s stool (one of the primary colon cancer symptoms).
Fecal immunohistochemistry test
This test is performed to assess a stool sample for the presence of certain proteins that are produced by cancerous cells.
Sigmoidoscopy
During this procedure, a slim tube with a small camera at the end is inserted into a patient’s rectum and lower colon so that a physician can visually check for unusual growths.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a slighting more extensive version of a sigmoidoscopy, during which a physician visually assesses the entire colon (rather than only the bottom portion).
Endoscopic ultrasound
During this procedure, an endoscope is inserted into a patient’s rectum, where it bounces sound waves off the internal organs to produce an image known as a sonogram.
Biopsy
A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue to be examined under a microscope. The biopsy might be performed during a colonoscopy or using tissue that was removing during a surgery.
Molecular testing
Following a biopsy, certain lab tests can be run on the tumor tissue sample to identify certain genes, proteins and other tumor properties. Molecular testing is useful in determining a patient’s most appropriate treatment options.
Imaging tests
Various methods of imaging – including CT scans, MRIs, X-rays or PET scans – may be used to create images of organs and tissues in the body to identify tumors and assess cancer growth/spread.
Anyone who is experiencing the symptoms of colon cancer can discuss a potential diagnosis with the expert oncologists at Moffitt Cancer Center. We offer a complete range of diagnostic tests and treatment services in a single location, and no referrals are required. To learn more about the tests we offer to investigate a potential colon cancer diagnosis, call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online.
Helpful Links:
