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How Is Cancer Diagnosed? Advanced Tests and Tools from Baptist Health

Quick, accurate diagnosis is paramount in creating an effective cancer treatment plan. Oftentimes, a myriad of different tests, tools and resources may be used to reach a conclusive cancer diagnosis. This may include screenings, blood tests and biopsies. 

At Baptist Health, our providers look to our full-suite of advanced services to diagnose everything from lung cancer to breast cancer to gastrointestinal cancer and more. Read on to get the answer to the question “How is cancer diagnosed?”

Screenings

Many patients first discover they may have cancer through routine screenings such as mammograms, colonoscopies, low-dose CT scans, pap smears, and prostate cancer tests. Those diagnosed during a screening often have a more favorable prognosis than those who find cancer after symptoms appear. Understanding how cancer is diagnosed and treated earlier through these screenings provides powerful motivation to make them a top priority.

Imaging

Advanced imaging technology can be used to provide a detailed picture of internal organs and tissues, which allows providers to detect and identify cancer. These imaging services include computerized tomography (CT or CAT scan), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound imaging (sonography), positron emission tomography (PET), PET/CT scanning and more. These tools play a critical role in answering “How is cancer diagnosed?” across different types and stages of the disease.

Biopsy

A biopsy is a procedure in which cells are taken from potentially cancerous tissue for further diagnostic testing. A biopsy may be performed on tissue that is currently within the patient’s body, or it can be performed on a tumor that has already been removed. 

Interventional Radiology

Interventional radiology combines imaging and biopsy to allow providers to detect and test potentially cancerous tissue during a minimally invasive procedure. Imaging services used in interventional radiology include MRIs, CT scans and ultrasounds.

Lab Tests

Lab tests are a common and important part of how cancer is diagnosed. These tests on bodily fluids such as blood and mucus can be conducted to look for markers of cancer, and give your provider intel on your overall health. 

Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy system

Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy system

Baptist Health is now utilizing a groundbreaking technology aimed at transforming the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. The new tool, the Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy system, aims to improve early detection and provide faster access to life-saving treatments.

Physicians at Baptist Health’s hospitals in Little Rock, North Little Rock and Fort Smith use the Ion technology.

Lung cancer diagnosis often requires biopsies of lung nodules, which can be located in difficult-to-reach areas of the lungs. As a result, many patients face the challenge of “watchful waiting,”  undergoing prolonged monitoring with imaging but without definitive diagnosis, leading to increased anxiety and potential delays in treatment.

The Ion system, however, enables precise, minimally invasive biopsies even for small and hard-to-reach nodules, allowing for earlier and more accurate diagnoses.

According to the American Lung Association, Arkansas has one of the highest lung cancer incidence and mortality rates in the nation, ranking among the states with the worst lung cancer survival rates. The introduction of the Ion system is a critical step in addressing this urgent public health issue.