Online cancer test. Oncology tests. Mechanism and causes of tumor appearance

According to the latest statistics, the mortality rate from cancer in the world is 70%. Doctors constantly warn their patients that in the early stages this disease is treatable, while in the later stages the tumor gives rise to metastases and becomes inoperable.

To detect cancer at an early stage, and in most cases the disease is almost asymptomatic at first, it is necessary to visit the doctor with enviable regularity and undergo expensive and often painful procedures, such as mammography or colonoscopy. In addition, these services are provided in cities with a developed medical infrastructure, while in small towns relatively simple methods of diagnosing cancer are not offered to patients at all.

Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute are trying to eliminate this obvious problem. They developed a simple paper test for cancer, similar in principle to a pregnancy test. Based on a small sample of a patient's urine, the test can determine the presence of cancer cells in the body in a few minutes.

A similar technique was previously developed to detect infectious diseases, after which it was adapted for other diseases (using the same strategy).

The author of the new technology is Professor Sangeeta Bhatia, who collaborates with both MIT and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. The nanoparticles she and her team created interact with tumor proteins called proteases, and each of these interactions triggers the release of hundreds of biomarkers that can be easily detected in the patient's urine.

Diagnosing cancer will soon be as easy as detecting pregnancy

(photo by BRYCE VICKMARK).

“When we discovered this new class of synthetic biomarkers, we used a highly specialized tool to conduct the analysis. We decided that a similar paper test technique would be especially useful in developing countries, where cancer testing could be performed without special equipment,” Bhatia says in a press release. MIT release.

The development of the technique began in 2012, when the professor and her colleagues introduced the concept of synthetic biomarker technology to enhance signals from tumor proteins. The latter are difficult to detect. These proteins, known as matrix metalloproteinases, help cancer cells "escape" from their original position by "cutting" the extracellular matrix proteins that normally "glue" the cells to one place.

The nanoparticles, developed at MIT and injected into the patient's body, are coated with peptides—short protein fragments. They specifically target specific matrix metalloproteinases. The particles accumulate at tumor sites where matrix metalloproteinases break down hundreds of peptides, which then accumulate in the kidneys and are excreted in the urine.

In the original version of this technology, peptides were detected using a mass spectrometer, which analyzes the molecular composition of the sample. However, these devices are not readily available in developing countries, so the researchers adapted the particles so that they could be detected on paper. This technology is known medically as lateral flow analysis and is also used in pregnancy tests.

To create the test strips, the scientists coated nitrocellulose paper with antibodies that can capture the peptides. When the peptides are “trapped,” they begin to spread along the stripe. There they are exposed to other antibodies specific for different types of peptides. When the antibodies catch their target, the strip on the paper turns a certain color. Using it, the doctor determines that the target peptides are present in the urine, and therefore the disease. The test can be easily adapted to several types of peptides at once.

(photo by BRYCE VICKMARK).

In experiments on mice, researchers were able to pinpoint colon tumors as well as blood clot formation. To prove the practicality of this approach, the creators will need to conduct clinical trials in large groups of patients in the near future.

Fortunately, this future is just around the corner. The research team won a grant from MIT's Gururaj Deshpande Center for Technology Innovation to develop a business plan to initiate clinical trials and commercialize the technology. Bhatia said that, most likely, the first tests will be carried out on patients at risk - those who have already had cancer and those who have it.

At this stage of development, all patients will need to receive an injection of nanoparticles before urinating on the test strip. This is the only inconvenient factor. Today, Bhatia and her colleagues are already developing a subcutaneous implant that will release nanoparticles. This is useful for long-term monitoring.

A detailed description of the technology can be read in an article published in the journal PNAS.

In the future, scientists will not only conduct clinical trials, but also work to identify the “chemical signature” of matrix metalloproteinases, which can be used as biomarkers for other types of cancer, as well as for tumors that have already entered the metastatic stage.

Early detection of symptoms and comprehensive diagnosis can improve the effectiveness of treatment and, in many cases, refute the diagnosis. At the first suspicion of cancer, you should contact an oncologist and get tested.

When can cancer be detected?

Oncological diseases can remain in the body for a long time without causing specific symptoms. Most often, the early process is identified during a preventive examination or accidentally, when taking clinical tests for other purposes.

Cancer at the first stage is detected in only 25-30% of cases.

To exclude cancer, it is enough to undergo a set of diagnostic procedures at least once a year.

On World Cancer Day, some medical institutions provide the opportunity to test the entire body for the presence of a malignant tumor free of charge.

What methods can detect cancer?

Diagnosing cancer is a complex and multifactorial process. To identify oncological pathology, different groups of diagnostic methods are used:

The selection of the necessary diagnostic procedures in each specific case is carried out by the doctor during the preliminary consultation of the patient. During a preventive examination of the body, a standard set of procedures is prescribed.

How is a comprehensive diagnosis of the whole body performed?

In order to examine the entire body for the presence of a malignant tumor, it is necessary to undergo general tests and take x-rays of all organs.

The test allows you to identify pathology even in the absence of symptoms.

Detection of a cancerous tumor at an early stage ensures successful treatment in 90-95% of cases.

To check for cancer, determine where the tumor is located and at what stage, a series of examinations are prescribed.

The diagnostic program typically includes a consultation with a specialized doctor, blood and tumor tissue tests, genetic studies and tomography.

To diagnose a pathological neoplasm, an ultrasound may also be prescribed. However, the procedure is only effective in cases where the tumor has reached a certain size.

Ultrasound is not used to diagnose cancer in the early stages.

This method allows you to determine the exact size of the expanded tumor, as well as determine the structure and contours of the formation. A biopsy is often performed under ultrasound guidance.

14 Signs that it’s time for you to get checked for cancer! Scary, but it’s better to know! The American Cancer Society recorded 1.5 million cancer cases in the United States alone in 2015. Medical experts unanimously say that early detection of the tumor is critical to fighting the disease.

There are some signs of cancer that absolutely cannot be ignored. Pay attention to all changes in the body, as they may be a sign not only of this disease, but also of a number of others. Check your body to ensure it is free of cancer cells if you feel any of these symptoms. Remember: these signs only mean that you need to see a doctor for help. 14 Signs It's Time for You to Get Tested for Cancer:

Bloating in women.

Unexplained and chronic flatulence may indicate ovarian cancer. Dr. Beth Yu Karlan explains, “Ovarian cancer is the silent killer. Usually no one pays attention to the fact that his stomach bloats quickly and regularly after lunch.” If you feel like your stomach is full too quickly and you regularly experience lower back pain, visit your doctor. Especially if you experience these symptoms for several weeks in a row.

Irregular bleeding in women.

Any abnormal bleeding that occurs after menopause or is not associated with your cycle at all could be a sign of something serious. For example, endometrial, or cervical cancer.

Dr. Caroline Runowicz says:

Any bleeding, even small drops of blood on your underwear, is abnormal. Not to mention the clots. If this happens to you, you need to immediately investigate what’s wrong.”

So get ready to see a doctor if you notice something like this. Let's hope that we are talking about some kind of banal cervical infection.

Pain in the abdomen and pelvic organs in women.

Pain in the pelvic organs or abdomen may be a sign of serious problems with the ovaries. If this pain is also accompanied by bloating, or if you have problems with appetite or urination, this requires a trip to the doctor.

“These symptoms are also seen when it is a problem other than cancer. When they are caused by cancer, they are stable and regular.”

Persistent back pain in men.

There can be many reasons for this problem. And most of them, fortunately, are not related to cancer. However, colon and prostate cancer are almost always accompanied by severe back pain. So if you encounter them, it would not hurt to make an appointment with a doctor.

Healthline writes on this topic:

Back pain is the most common cause of disability. People don't realize it, but it can also indicate prostate cancer. He also has another symptom: pain in the bones of the hips.

Of course, muscle pain in itself should not be a reason for you to panic. But if this condition recurs regularly for you, we are probably talking about something serious.

Changes in the testicles in men.

One of the best ways to protect yourself from testicular cancer is to constantly monitor the condition and size of these organs. It is important that their size and shape do not change.

Dr. Herbert Lepore explains:

If you notice something extra on them, some serious new formation, never delay checking with a doctor. Unlike prostate cancer, which grows slowly, testicular cancer can form overnight!

In general, take a closer look at yourself!

Pain in the groin, thighs or pelvis in men.

Prostate cancer can cause not only back pain, but also pain in the groin, thighs and buttocks. Testicular cancer also has the same symptoms.And remember: any chronic pain or swelling is definitely a sign of something serious.

Persistent cough in men and women.

As a rule, a cough is a consequence of a cold. However, if it refuses to go away and torments you for months/years, then this could indicate cancer - thyroid, throat or lung.

We know that coughs and colds are usually related. But if your cough doesn't go away for months, don't be afraid to consult a doctor.

Smoking can also cause chronic cough. “It is the number one cancer killer among women,” Karlan emphasizes.

Problems with urination in men and women.

If you have recurring problems with bowel movements and urination, it could be a sign of something very serious.

Healthline writes:

Everyone has problems with their intestines one way or another, but serious changes, chronic pain, a feeling as if the stomach is “bloated” - all these can be symptoms of colorectal cancer.”

If blood comes out along with your stool, then it’s time to immediately contact a professional.

Sudden weight loss in men and women.

Sudden and unexplained weight loss can have several causes, but they are all very serious. This is how some types of cancer manifest themselves, in particular.

The American Cancer Society writes:

An unexplained loss of even 5 kg may indicate cancer. This is usually the case with cancer of the pancreas, stomach, esophagus or lungs.

Stress, however, can also cause this. But it's better to get a blood test to make sure everything is normal.

Changes in the chest area in men and women.

Many people think that breast cancer only affects women, but in fact, it affects men too. Its first sign: the appearance of lumps of unknown nature in the chest area.

Dr. Myers says:

Men tend to ignore the risk of getting this type of cancer. But in 1% of all cases it develops in men, not women. And almost all sick people seek help from doctors too late.

Breast cancer can be treated without any problems: the main thing is to detect it at an early stage.

Enlarged lymph nodes in men and women.

These are small glands located in several places throughout the body. The main ones are on the neck and armpits. Swollen lymph nodes are most often a sign of hypothermia or a consequence of a sore throat.

However, Dr. Marlene Myers notes that if swelling doesn't go away within two to four weeks, you should definitely see a doctor.

Changes in the skin of men and women.

You should keep an eye out for any new growths on your skin. After all, this type of cancer is extremely important and, most importantly, easy to recognize at an early stage.

Pay attention to any new moles that appear on your body. If you don't like their color, shape or size, consult your doctor immediately.

Moreover, this is the best case when “it’s better to be safe than sorry”: skin cancer cells detected in time help to stop it instantly.

Any changes in the mouth of men and women.

First of all, you should pay attention to the appearance of strange white or red spots in the mouth. Especially if you smoke or chew tobacco!

The American Cancer Society writes about this:

White spots in the mouth and white spots on the tongue may indicate a precancerous condition. Any changes that do not go away quickly should be checked by a doctor."

Severe chronic fatigue in men and women.

We mean tired for no reason. Those. If every day you feel worse in the morning than in the evening, then most likely you have something really serious.

The American Cancer Society writes:

Fatigue is an important symptom if it becomes more and more acute over time. This is how leukemia or other types of cancer usually manifest themselves.

As you understand, this is also a case when it is better to go to the doctor one more time to understand that you are safe than to regret it later in the hospital ward.

Dr. Beth Karlan emphasizes:

We didn't mean to alarm you. We just want to explain to you: cancer is curable, if you find it in the early stages, then nothing bad will happen to you. Use the latest achievements of medical science to the maximum - and you will be able to live as you lived before the diagnosis. The main thing is to see oncologists on time.

In short, you get the idea. We simply could not help but warn you. Share this article with all your friends you know! This could save someone's life!!! These were 14 Signs that it's time for you to get checked for cancer.

It ranks second among cancer diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract, and in Europe it has long held a leading position. The success of its treatment is directly dependent on the timely detection of the tumor process.

A malignant neoplasm of the intestine, detected at an early stage, is not only highly treatable, but also gives the patient a fairly high guarantee that he will never encounter this disease again.

That is why the task of early diagnosis of intestinal cancer is so relevant today.

Methods for diagnosing colon cancer

If intestinal cancer is suspected, diagnosis always begins with a history and physical examination of the patient, including examination and digital examination of the condition of the rectum.

After the initial examination, the specialist refers the patient to a series of instrumental studies using modern innovative equipment:

• rectoscopy;
• colonoscopy;
• irrigoscopy;
• Ultrasound of the intestines and;
• fibrocolonoscopy;
• fluoroscopy of the liver and;
• intravenous urography;
• laparoscopy.

To make a correct diagnosis, laboratory tests are necessary (perform a general analysis and test for) and feces ().

If intestinal cancer was identified during the research, to determine its stage and choose treatment tactics, the patient’s tumor tissue taken during a biopsy is subjected to histological and cytological examination.

How to identify the disease at an early stage?

In order to prevent the tumor process in the intestines from developing to an inoperable stage, every person should know a number of its first alarming manifestations, when they appear, they should immediately consult a doctor and undergo a series of necessary studies.

The reason for concern is:

• Irregularity or frequent changes in the nature of bowel movements (either constipation or diarrhea).
• Presence of blood in stool.
• Pale skin, anemia and a sharp decrease in body weight.
• A state of constant weakness and fatigue.
• Constant pain in the anus.
• Prolonged and unexplained increase in body temperature.

After a barium x-ray or colonoscopy procedure, the doctor will quickly determine the cause of the alarming symptoms and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

People at risk for bowel cancer (who have close relatives with the disease) can protect themselves by undergoing regular medical examinations in a clinical setting.

A person who discovers the first suspicious symptoms indicating the likelihood of developing bowel cancer can use a home rapid test. After receiving a positive result, he needs to contact a qualified specialist as soon as possible.

Patient interview

With a competent interview of the patient, an experienced specialist can obtain very useful information that helps in quickly making the correct diagnosis.

During a conversation with the patient, the doctor analyzes his habits, lifestyle, information about previous diseases and methods of prescribed treatment.

When collecting anamnesis, the doctor, with the help of leading questions, can identify the presence of symptoms that the patient does not even pay attention to.

In addition to clarifying the hidden and well-defined signs of the disease, the specialist assesses the functioning of the main vital systems of the body, determines the presence of a tumor or any unusual manifestations.

Clinical signs

The nature of symptoms in intestinal cancer largely depends on the location of the tumor process. Colon damage is accompanied by:

• increase in body temperature up to 37 degrees;
• tension in the abdominal muscles;
• alternation and constipation;
• anemia;
• , loss of appetite;
• (full or partial);
• abdominal pain (depending on the form of cancer, it can be sharp, dull or cramping);
• the presence of specific discharge from the rectum (impurities of pus, blood and tumor masses in the stool).

Cancer of the sigmoid or rectum manifests itself:

• cramping pain in the abdomen;
• irregular stool;
• difficulty defecating, flatulence, lethargy or complete absence of intestinal motility;
• phenomena of intoxication of the body;
• a feeling of incomplete bowel movement and false urges to empty the bowel;
• “ribbon-shaped” appearance and black color of stool;
• bleeding of the tumor, massive blood loss and the development of anemia;
• development (accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity), leading to an increase in abdominal circumference, shortness of breath, poor digestion of food, frequent heartburn and sour belching.

Palpation of the abdomen

The method allows you to determine:

• degree of muscle tension;
• location, consistency, degree of mobility and size of the tumor accessible to palpation;
• the presence of spastic contractions of the intestines;
• the presence of fluid accumulating in the abdominal cavity.

When palpating the perineal area, the doctor must examine all external lymph nodes. This may reveal the presence of a protruding malignant neoplasm.

Finger examination

This is one of the simplest and most valuable methods of initial examination of a patient complaining of problems with the functioning of the large intestine and rectum, which are included in the list of mandatory medical procedures.

The specialist performs a primary rectal examination by inserting a finger into the patient's rectum. Digital examination allows you to feel the walls of the rectum, anal canal and nearby organs.

Being completely painless, it does not cause any discomfort to the patient.

Digital examination allows us to assess the condition of almost half of the rectum. The presence of an oncological lesion in it rarely goes unnoticed when used.

Instrumental methods

Instrumental diagnostic methods using the latest advances in medical technology make it possible not only to make a correct diagnosis, but also to identify the presence of metastases in the patient’s body.

Sigmoidoscopy

In this study, which allows us to assess the condition of the mucous membranes of the rectum in an area 25 cm away from the anus, a special device is used - a tubular rigid endoscope.

Representing a hollow metal tube equipped with a built-in lighting device, the sigmoidoscope is carefully inserted through the anus into the lumen of the rectum. Thanks to the presence of the eyepiece, the doctor can:

• consider the condition of the walls of the rectum: the degree of their elasticity, the nature of the internal relief, the color of the mucous membrane;
• monitor the tone and motor function of the examined intestine;
• detect pathological changes and neoplasms.

The procedure allows you to take a sample of tumor tissue for microscopic examination - a biopsy. With skillful insertion of the rectoscope, the procedure is quite painless; It does not require any pain relief.

Irrigoscopy

This is a method of x-ray examination of the affected colon with the preliminary introduction of a contrast agent (barium suspension) into it.

A series of x-rays (irrigograms) performed during the procedure allows one to analyze the location, shape and extent of the intestine, the degree of elasticity and extensibility of its walls, and detect the presence of neoplasms and pathological changes in the mucous membranes. Irrigoscopy does not cause pain to patients.

Fibercolonoscopy

This procedure consists of introducing a special device from the anus - a fibrocolonoscope, the extreme length and flexibility of which allows you to examine the condition of the colon along its entire length.

The presence of a video camera and a lighting device allows the doctor to clearly examine all areas of the intestine being examined, take tissue from the detected tumor for subsequent biopsy, and in some cases even remove small pathological neoplasms (benign tumors and polyps).

Ultrasound, CT and MRI

All these diagnostic methods are the most informative and safe for the patient’s body.

• The ultrasound method allows you to obtain a clear picture demonstrating the dynamics of the organ under study. To improve the efficiency of the study, quickly detect a malignant neoplasm, its location and size, a rectal sensor can be inserted into the patient’s body during the procedure.
• pelvic, thoracic and abdominal cavities is a type of x-ray examination. The patient's body is exposed to a small dose of radioactive radiation, and iodine is injected into his vein, acting as a contrast agent. The CT procedure is invaluable for assessing the degree of metastasis of a malignant tumor.
• The MRI procedure, which provides a three-dimensional image of the organ being examined, gives the best result in identifying a cancerous tumor. Its advantage is that there is no need for any preparatory measures. A contraindication to MRI is the presence of metal-containing elements in the patient’s body.

Abdominal X-ray and radioisotope liver scan

To objectively assess the condition of the intestines and identify intestinal obstruction, a survey radiography of the abdominal cavity is performed by taking several x-rays.

No contrast agent is injected.

The procedure of radioisotope scanning of the liver is carried out in order to exclude suspicions of metastasis of an intestinal cancer tumor to the liver.

After intravenous administration of isotopes that accumulate in tumor tissues, a series of images are taken.

Intravenous urography

Another method of X-ray contrast examination with intravenous administration of a contrast agent. Having been present in the blood, the injected substance leaves the sick person’s body through the urinary tract, simultaneously staining them, the kidneys and the bladder.

The photographs taken allow the doctor to assess the condition of the genitourinary system and identify the presence of metastases.

Laparoscopy

Being an endoscopic examination in which miniature optical systems are introduced into the patient’s abdominal cavity through small punctures in its wall, laparoscopy is equivalent to surgery. It is performed only under anesthesia.

Thanks to laparoscopy, the doctor can carefully examine all the organs of the abdominal cavity, draw conclusions about their condition and the presence of metastases, and also take material for a biopsy.

Laboratory methods

Laboratory tests of a patient's blood and stool often help identify bowel cancer in the earliest stages of its development.

General blood test and tumor markers: indicators

Although not a specific diagnostic test, a general blood test can nevertheless draw the doctor’s attention to the atypical behavior of cells in the patient’s body.

The presence of a hidden pathological process in the intestines may be indicated by:

• An unreasonable increase in ESR against the background of a normal or slightly increased level of leukocytes.
• An equally inexplicable decrease in hemoglobin levels, leading to the development of anemia. This picture is typical for intestinal and stomach cancer.

A specific laboratory test to detect intestinal cancer is a blood test for tumor markers - special antigens actively synthesized by cancer cells. Their high content in the blood indicates the presence of an oncological focus in the patient’s body.

Tumor markers indicating intestinal cancer are antigens CA-125, CA-15-3, CA-19-9. The presence of the CA-242 tumor marker in the blood helps to identify this disease at the earliest stage of its development. During the test, antibodies are injected into a patient's blood sample, which detect the presence of antigens in it.

Analysis of feces and urine for occult blood

A fecal occult blood test, which is recommended annually for people over fifty years of age, does not always indicate the presence of bowel cancer.

Blood in the stool may appear due to a bleeding benign neoplasm (for example, a polyp) or some inflammatory process.

The presence of blood in the stool in any case indicates a problem in the patient’s body that requires immediate treatment.

A general urinalysis is sometimes helpful in identifying a cancerous tumor that has affected the tissues of the kidneys, ureters and bladder. The doctor will definitely be alert to:

• The presence of even a slight admixture of blood in the urine (hematuria).
• The presence of cancer cells in the sediment.

Biopsy

The method is considered one of the most accurate in diagnosing colon cancer. With its help, you can finally confirm the diagnosis and distinguish a benign tumor from a malignant one.

The doctor can take a piece of tumor tissue while performing:

• fibrocolonoscopy;
• laparoscopy;
• sigmoidoscopy;
• surgery to remove an intestinal tumor.

The taken tissues are subjected to cytological and histological examination.

Histological examination

When cancerous tissue is removed, it is cut in the laboratory, and then the resulting sample is examined using a microscope. Histology can be:

• Urgent, completed within half an hour. Such a study is performed in the most urgent cases (usually in a clinical setting). Before testing, the prepared sample is quickly frozen and tinted with a special reagent.
• Scheduled, taking at least five days. Tumor tissue obtained during sigmoidoscopy is processed using paraffin and a special solution, as well as stained. Planned histological examination, despite the labor-intensive and time-consuming process, is characterized by greater accuracy of the result.

Cytological examination

In this type of research, specialists study the structure of atypical cells and the nature of their degeneration. What is studied under a microscope is not a section of tumor tissue, as in histology, but individual cancer cells.

The following are subjected to cytological examination:

• fragments of the rectal wall taken during biopsy;
• purulent and mucous discharge that clogged the lumen of the rectum;
• imprints of the mucous membranes of the problematic intestine.

Home express test

Today, every person who is alarmed by the presence of suspicious symptoms has the opportunity to independently determine whether hidden blood is present in his stool. This can be done using special tests designed for use at home.

Photo of step-by-step instructions for a home test to detect colon cancer

Their advantages are:

• high (99%) reliability of the result obtained;
• no need for special training or diet;
• high speed of obtaining results (testing takes 5-7 minutes);
• lack of reaction to vitamins and medications taken.

Who is it shown to?

Testing for bowel cancer is recommended:

• Patients of any age who have disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Persons over fifty years of age.
• Patients who have reached the age of forty and have a hereditary predisposition to colon cancer (should be tested annually).

Testing procedure

• Before performing the test, the patient attaches a special sheet of paper equipped with Velcro (included in the kit) to the rim of the toilet bowl, intended for receiving feces.
• Armed with a special stick mounted in the cap of a plastic test tube with a ready-made reagent, take a drop of feces onto it, place it inside the test tube and, after screwing the lid on, shake vigorously.
;
• rectal fissures;
• hemorrhoids.

Receiving a positive result is an indication for immediate consultation with a doctor, since the real cause of the appearance of blood in the stool can only be determined after a series of diagnostic procedures.

Cost and where to buy

The cost of home express tests depends not only on the manufacturer, but also on trade markups, which can significantly increase their initial price.

• The domestically produced test “ImmunoCHROM-GEM-Express” can be purchased for 220 rubles.
• A set of 10 such tests will cost the buyer 2,000 rubles.
• The NADAL express test, produced by the German company Nal Von Minden, can be purchased for 2,100 rubles (for one copy).

You can purchase tests both in pharmacies and on relevant online resources.

To successfully treat rectal cancer, it is important to diagnose the disease on time. This is why timely diagnosis of rectal cancer is needed in men and women. Modern oncology centers are equipped with methods and technologies that make it possible to quickly identify the problem and begin timely treatment. What diagnostic methods exist for rectal cancer, is it possible to identify a dangerous disease at home, and what kind of laboratory and instrumental diagnostic measures will help identify the problem?

Diagnostic purposes

Diagnosis of rectal and colon cancer is prescribed after the patient has gone to the hospital with complaints. And in order to discover the original source of the problem, you need to conduct a series of studies that will help confirm or refute the diagnosis. If the results indicate the development of a malignant tumor, the doctor assesses the patient’s condition, stage and prescribes drug treatment.

With any oncology of internal organs, it is important to identify the pathology in time, since at an early stage you can be completely cured and live a full life, but at stages 3-4, the chances of a successful cure decrease.

How to detect colorectal cancer at home?

Pharmacy saliva test

The test will help determine the presence of cancer cells in the body.

You can conduct a test to determine colorectal cancer at home yourself by purchasing a special rapid test at the pharmacy. Thanks to this method, it will be possible to identify the disease even in the early stages, as well as determine which organ is affected by malignant cells. The test for colorectal cancer is carried out at home; just 1 drop of saliva is enough for the sample. When the results appear on the indicator after 10 minutes, by checking the instructions, you can determine whether there are malignant cells in the body.

Symptom assessment

In addition to the test results, the patient is concerned about the following symptoms:

• Problems with defecation, pain when going to the toilet, blood impurities are visible in the stool.
• The patient becomes passive, quickly gets tired, rapidly loses body weight, and suffers from anemia.
• With metastases, the work of neighboring organs - the liver and kidneys - is disrupted, causing causeless pain in the abdominal cavity.

With such characteristic symptoms, you should not try to identify the disease yourself and self-medicate. In this case, not only will precious time be lost, but you may also harm yourself. Only a doctor can make the correct diagnosis and prescribe therapy, then the success of a cure will be as high as possible.

Instrumental diagnostics

The advantage of the method is that during the diagnosis, small tumors can be removed.

With the help of endoscopy, a cancerous tumor in the rectum is detected in the initial stages. The procedure involves using a special instrument - an endoscope, which is inserted into the rectum. The tip of the endoscopic tube is equipped with a microvideo camera, with which you can see all the changes in the internal tissues of the organ. If the tumor is small and can be removed, then during the procedure an operation is performed in which the tumor is removed and further studied. Thanks to this operation, it is possible to avoid resection and damage to abdominal tissue, so the recovery period is much shorter.

MRI, CT and ultrasound examination

An MRI or CT scan can examine the internal organs of the abdominal cavity and identify pathological changes. Before going for an MRI or CT scan, you should prepare properly, in this case you will be able to get the most accurate results and determine the disease. During the study, a special contrast agent is used, which is administered intravenously, immediately before the procedure. Next, the patient is placed in a tomograph machine, which scans the desired area. MRI uses the properties of magnetic fields without any radiation exposure. During CT scanning, the patient is exposed to radiation, but it is not dangerous and does not affect health.

Using ultrasound, the doctor will be able to determine the size of the tumor, its location, and whether neighboring organs and lymph nodes have been affected by metastases. But for rectal cancer, this method is rarely used, since it is uninformative and does not provide enough information. Ultrasound helps confirm the diagnosis. In any case, the doctor decides which study is suitable for the person and which option is the most informative and safe in a particular case.

Rectal biopsy

A biopsy will help determine the type and stage of development of the tumor.

A rectal biopsy is performed for people who are suspected of having cancerous tumors, non-malignant tumors and other pathologies of the rectum. A rectal biopsy makes it possible to identify the presence of a cancerous tumor, what type it is, and at what stage of development. There are 3 types of malignant tumors:

• a tumor that grows slowly, but is not malignant; after removal, the person recovers completely;
• a tumor that grows quickly, the likelihood of spreading to neighboring organs is average;
• a tumor that grows rapidly, metastases spread to neighboring organs.

If a rectal biopsy reveals a cancerous tumor that is growing and spreading quickly, the patient is prescribed complex therapy that helps stop the proliferation of metastases and the growth of the tumor itself. When choosing a treatment regimen, the doctor takes into account the general condition of the patient and at what stage the disease was detected.