What is diagnostic testing?

Diagnostic testing involves tests and procedures to confirm the presence of disease and identify the correct tumor type, location, extent and stage. At Cancer Treatment Centers of America^® (CTCA), we use sophisticated diagnostic technology to pinpoint and evaluate tumors and develop a personalized treatment plan. We use a variety of technologies and medical devices to empower our clinicians and inform medical diagnoses.

Experienced care team

Our diagnostic team includes physicians across many medical specialties, including radiologists and pathologists. They have years of training and expertise in using advanced, minimally invasive diagnostic tests and procedures to diagnose cancer.

Cancer diagnostics at CTCA

A thorough and accurate cancer diagnosis is the first step in developing an individualized cancer treatment plan. Our care team works together, sharing electronic medical records and collaborating under one roof to monitor patients and support a seamless decision-making process.

Diagnostic tests we perform may include:

• A review of health history
• Physical examination
• Diagnostic procedures
• Clinical laboratory and blood tests
• Imaging tests (X-ray, PET/CT, MRI, ultrasound, etc.)
• Other testing that may be required

After cancer is diagnosed

Even after the validation of your diagnosis, our diagnostics program continues to play an important role throughout your cancer treatment in these ways:

• Before treatment, we’ll locate tumors, stage the disease and determine an appropriate treatment plan tailored to you, based on your diagnosis and personal goals.
• During your treatment, we’ll track the size of the tumor, progression of the disease and your response to treatment, and modify your treatment accordingly. Clinical care sometimes involves referrals to onsite specialists.
• After you complete treatment, we’ll follow up with you to evaluate symptoms you may be experiencing and schedule regular check-ups to monitor for biomarkers or any possible evidence of metastasis or recurrence.

Accommodating your needs

We understand that waiting for diagnostic test results can create a great deal of stress. To ease anxiety and help you begin your cancer treatment as soon as possible, we work to reduce wait times for appointments and test results. In some cases, we offer telehealth appointments so that you can ask questions via a smartphone or computer.