General analysis for cancer cells in the body. Analysis for cancer cells in the body

Cancer of the urinary system manifests itself as blood in the urine. Also, urine may contain ketone bodies, which indicate tissue breakdown. However, these symptoms also accompany diseases not related to oncology, for example, they speak of the presence of stones in the bladder or kidneys, diabetes mellitus.

For the diagnosis of other cancers, urinalysis is not helpful. It cannot be used to judge the presence of oncological diseases, however, deviations from the norm indicate health problems.

The exception is multiple myeloma, in which a specific Bens-Jones protein is determined in the urine.

For research, collect the morning urine in a sterile container, which can be purchased at the pharmacy. First you need to take a shower.

How to prepare for taking an analysis for tumor markers

For those who are looking for an answer, what tests need to be passed in order to exclude oncology, you should pay attention to one more variant of the study. Analysis for tumor markers makes it possible to understand whether there are cancers in the body.

Tumor markers include special proteins and antigens produced by the tumor. Such markers are present in the body of every person, but in minimal quantities. With the development of cancer, their number increases markedly.

To detect cancer, blood is drawn from a patient's vein several times in a row.

An examination should be carried out with a prolonged deterioration in well-being in the form of weakness, constant low temperature, fatigue, weight loss, anemia of unknown origin, enlarged lymph nodes, the appearance of seals in the mammary glands, changes in the color and size of moles, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, accompanied by the passage of blood after defecation, obsessive cough without signs of infection, etc.

Additional reasons are:

• age over 40;
• family history of oncology;
• going beyond the normal range of indicators of biochemical analysis and CBC;
• pain or prolonged dysfunction of any organs or systems, even to a slight extent.

The analysis does not take much time, while helping to identify a life-threatening disease in time and cure it in the least traumatic ways. In addition, such examinations should become regular (at least once a year) for those who have relatives with cancer or are over the age of forty.

Blood for antigen testing is taken from a vein in the morning. The results are issued within 1-3 days, and in order for them to be reliable, certain recommendations must be followed:

• do not have breakfast;
• do not take any medications and vitamins the day before;
• three days before making a cancer diagnosis by blood test, exclude alcohol;
• do not take fatty and fried foods the day before;
• exclude heavy physical activity the day before the study;
• on the day of delivery, do not smoke in the morning (smoking increases CEA);
• so that third-party factors do not distort the indicators, first cure all infections.

The key to successful treatment of the disease is timely diagnostics.

With the analysis for the presence of cancer cells, it is possible:

1. Identify malignant pathology before the first symptoms appear.
2. Determine if a person is at risk for a high probability of developing cancer.
3. Find out which organ is affected.
4. Timely identify a relapse.
5. Assess the effectiveness of the surgical intervention.

Tumor markers are substances that are formed during the life of cancer cells. Their structure can be different, but, as a rule, they are proteins or their derivatives.

If, when taking a blood test for cancer cells, a high concentration of tumor markers is found in human biomaterial, this indicates the presence of a malignant process. The study of their level allows you to identify the slightest changes at least a month earlier than using other diagnostic methods.

To date, more than 200 names of these substances are known. Thanks to this, the localization of the neoplasm is determined in a timely manner.

In practice, the following tumor markers are of greatest importance:

1. AFP. It is found in blood plasma, bile, amniotic fluid, pleural and ascitic fluid. Its level increases with a tumor process in the liver, intestines, bronchi, lungs, ovaries.
2. CEA. It is not a specific tumor marker. Allows you to suspect cancer of the stomach, breast and thyroid glands, prostate, reproductive system, colon.
3. CA 125. Its critical level speaks of malignant tumor of the ovary. In addition, it can indicate cancer of the endometrium, respiratory and digestive systems.
4. CA 15-3. Basically, its rate increases with a malignant process in the mammary glands. It also detects cancer of the genital organs in women, lungs, and liver.
5. CA 19-9. It is a sign of malignant pathologies of the stomach, bladder, intestines, liver, mammary glands, female genital organs.
6. CA 72-4. Provides the most accurate information for stomach cancer. It also helps to identify malignant neoplasms in the lungs, reproductive system, pancreas.
7. CYFRA 21-1. It is a specific tumor marker. A critical increase in its level indicates cancer of the bladder or lungs (one of the types).
8. PSA. This protein is secreted by cells of the prostate gland and detects cancer and adenoma.
9. CA 242. It is considered the most specific tumor marker of the malignant process in the pancreas.

It is important to know that a slight increase in the concentration of these substances does not always indicate cancer. This can occur with various diseases that are not associated with the occurrence of malignant processes.

If we talk about what tests show oncology, then this examination is quite informative and allows you to determine the presence of cancer. It is also used to detect relapses after treatment.

Tumor markers are special types of protein, enzymes, or protein breakdown products. They are secreted either by the tissue of a malignant neoplasm, or by healthy tissue in response to cancer cells. Now the existence of more than 200 of their species has been scientifically proven.

A small amount of tumor markers is also present in the body of a healthy person, their volume increases moderately, for example, with a cold, as well as in women during pregnancy, in men with prostate adenoma.

However, the appearance in a large volume of certain specific types is characteristic of certain tumors. For example, tumor markers CEA and CA-15-3 can signal breast cancer, and CA 125 and HE-4 - ovarian cancer.

By increasing the level of one or another tumor marker, you can determine which organ or system is affected by the tumor. Also, this analysis is able to show that a person is at risk of developing cancer.

Immunological analysis is taken on an empty stomach, blood is taken from a vein. Also, tumor markers are determined by urine analysis.

Some groups are more likely to develop cancer than others. For example, people with fair skin, unlike dark-skinned people, are prone to melanoma.

One of the most well-known causes of cancer is heredity. If there have been cases of stomach cancer in the family, then the children will have a predisposition to this particular type.

The human gene contains information about such pathologies. To determine the likelihood of the disease, special tests are used to determine the predisposition to it. They are intended for genome research.

When do you need to be tested for cancer cells in the body? Certain occupations have an increased risk of cancer. For example, for workers who work in a variety of production areas.

If a person is constantly in contact with chemicals and hazardous substances, heavy metals, resins, asbestos, chemical dyes and all kinds of radiation, then he is exposed to carcinogenic effects.

Defects in the functioning of the immune system also cause a decrease in the body's resistance to a number of infections, viruses and bacteria. Cancer can develop due to weak immunity.

Another name for the analysis for cancer cells, which is carried out in case of suspicion of the named pathology, is a study for tumor markers. The fact is that due to the influence of cancer, special substances are produced in the body, and they can be detected during laboratory studies.

For example, AFP - for detecting liver cancer, CA-125 - for detecting ovarian tumors, etc. This test requires venous blood. At the same time, everyone can take a blood test for cancer cells.

General and biochemical test

First, you need to donate a blood sample for a general study. If there is a malignant formation, then the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, that is, ESR, is much higher than its permissible norm.

An analysis for cancer cells in the body is a study of the total number of different types of leukocytes, a leukocyte formula is drawn up. A severe decrease or increase in white blood cells and a high concentration of granular and immature cells indicate the development of pathology.

When the general test is done, the biochemistry of the blood is examined, through which it is possible to establish direction in search of the affected organ.

It is impossible to determine whether a person has cancer from a drop of blood, but it is quite possible to see deviations in the condition. For a good diagnostician, it will not be difficult to suspect a neoplasm if there are deviations in the leukocyte formula, the number of platelets is clearly reduced, and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate is more than 30 for a long time.

A deviation in either direction of the total protein content may indicate a neoplasm, which accelerates decay, inhibits the formation of proteins, which often occurs in malignant plasmacytoma.

The growth of creatinine and urea is evidence of impaired renal function, poisoning of the body with substances from cancer cells, while the growth of only urea can be evidence of tumor decomposition.

An increase in alkaline phosphatase may indicate malignant processes. If the blood cholesterol falls below the lower limit, this is considered one of the signs of liver cancer.

If cancer is suspected in the stomach, the most accurate is fibroesophagastroduodenoscopy, with sampling of material for research, in the rectum - colonoscopy, in the lungs - bronchoscopy, sputum examination, in the cervix - cytological smear studies.

Expert opinion

Kovaleva Elena Anatolievna

Doctor-Laboratory Assistant. Experience in the clinical diagnostic service for 14 years.

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But any deviations in analyzes - this is a reason not to despair, but to start an urgent examination, because the level indicators of a particular substance cannot serve as an accurate confirmation of the diagnosis of "cancer".

Doctors will carry out many additional procedures to identify the nature of the abnormalities, they will be sure to check the cells taken from a suspicious area, only after that we can talk about the presence of malignant tumors.

In recent years, immunological diagnostics have become very popular. The blood is examined for the content of antigens in it, which are also called tumor markers. In a normal healthy body, most of these substances, if present, are in minimal quantities. Growth indicates the development of the tumor process.

Today, medicine releases more than 300 proteins, hormone enzymes and other substances that can confirm the presence of malignant processes in the body. However, each of these markers either reacts to a certain kind of tumor (main), or is not too sensitive, that is, it is useless with early diagnosis, however, together with the main one, it confirms suspicions (secondary), or reacts to neoplasms of many types, that is, is not able to indicate where exactly the problem is hidden.

• Diagnose prostate cancer helps the PSA antigen (prostate-specific). However, its concentration can increase in the elderly, as well as during special procedures, some infections.
• Colon cancer, as well as the lungs, the mammary gland is able to increase the concentration of the CEA antigen, which is called cancerous embryonic.
• Cancer of the liver, ovaries, testicles secretes into the body, the AFP protein (alpha-fetoprotein), which is practically not detected in the adult body, is needed by a person during embryonic development, that is, in the womb. The acquisition of the properties of embryonic cells by a neoplasm provokes the release of this protein.
• Ovarian cancer can also be confirmed by the HE4 protein, especially if, along with it, an increased content of the CA 125 protein is detected.
• Melanoma is produced by protein S-100.
• Damage to the pancreas accompanied by an increase in the CA 19-9 protein.
• Cancers of the stomach, lungs, breast increase the number of CA 72 - 4.
• Thyroid in oncology produces a large amount of calcitonin.
• Small cell and non-small cell lung cancer, carcinomas, squamous cell tumors, leukemias, and leukemias also have antigens.

But none of the tumor markers is an accurate, 100% correct confirmation of the oncological process. Therefore, diagnosis for the desired antigen is carried out in the presence of symptoms, confirmed by other methods.

In addition, a blood test for the presence of antigens to tumors of various natures is a complex and expensive procedure, usually done in private clinics, therefore, such tests are done only with serious suspicions of malignant neoplasms.

They cannot be considered completely reliable, because our body is complex, many of its characteristics are individual, and a benign disease, infection or taking any drugs can provoke the growth of a substance.

Oncological diseases are able to stay in the body for a long time without provoking specific symptoms. Most often, the detection of an early process occurs during a preventive examination or accidentally, when passing clinical tests for other purposes.

To exclude cancers, 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 check the entire body for the fact of the formation of a malignant tumor for free.

Cancer can be suspected based on the results of standard and special studies. In pathological processes in the body, changes in the composition and properties of blood are reflected in:

• general blood test;
• biochemical research;
• analysis for tumor markers.

However, it is impossible to reliably determine cancer from a blood test. Deviations of any indicators can be caused by diseases that have nothing to do with oncology. Even a specific and most informative analysis for tumor markers does not give a 100% guarantee of the presence or absence of a disease and needs to be confirmed.

This type of laboratory study gives an idea of \u200b\u200bthe number of basic formed elements that are responsible for the functions of the blood. A decrease or increase in any indicators is a signal of trouble, including the presence of neoplasms.

A sample is taken from a finger (sometimes from a vein) in the morning, on an empty stomach. The table below shows the main categories of general or clinical blood tests and their normal values.

When interpreting the analyzes, it must be borne in mind that, depending on gender and age, the indicators may differ, there are also physiological reasons for the increase or decrease in the values.

Almost all of these blood parameters in oncology change in the direction of decrease or increase. What exactly the doctor pays attention to when studying the results of the analysis:

• ESR. The erythrocyte plasma sedimentation rate is higher than normal. Physiologically, this can be explained by menstruation in women, increased physical activity, stress, etc. However, if the excess is significant and is accompanied by symptoms of general weakness and low-grade fever, cancer can be suspected.
• Neutrophils. Their number has increased. The emergence of new, immature cells (myelocytes and metamyelocytes) in the peripheral blood, which is characteristic of neuroblastomas and other oncological diseases, is especially dangerous.
• Lymphocytes. These indicators of the CBC in oncology are higher than normal, since it is this blood element that is responsible for immunity and fights cancer cells.
• Hemoglobin. Decreases if there are tumor processes in the internal organs. This is explained by the fact that the waste products of tumor cells damage erythrocytes, reducing their number.
• Leukocytes. The number of white blood cells, as shown by analyzes in oncology, always decreases if the bone marrow is affected by metastases. The leukocyte formula is shifted to the left. Neoplasms of other localization lead to an increase.

It should be borne in mind that a decrease in hemoglobin and the number of red blood cells is characteristic of common anemia caused by iron deficiency. An increase in ESR is observed in inflammatory processes.

The purpose of this analysis, carried out annually, is to obtain information about metabolism, the work of various internal organs, the balance of vitamins and microelements. A biochemical blood test in oncology is also informative, since a change in certain values \u200b\u200ballows conclusions to be drawn about the presence of cancerous tumors. From the table you can find out what indicators should be normal.

Indications

Anyone can go through the study for preventive purposes. With its help, it is possible to diagnose pathology at a very early stage and develop an effective treatment regimen. In addition, a blood test for tumor markers provides timely information about an impending relapse.

In addition, the study is assigned in the following cases:

1. With unfavorable heredity. If a person in a family has several of its members at once / suffer from an illness, he is shown to regularly take a blood test for cancer cells.
2. To clarify the diagnosis. If any studies that have been conducted have given a dubious result, it is necessary to donate blood for tumor markers.
3. To assess the effectiveness of the prescribed treatment. With the help of an analysis for cancer cells in the body, it is possible to identify the slightest unfavorable changes and promptly correct the previously drawn up scheme for getting rid of pathology.
4. In order to prevent relapse after treatment.

How often should blood be donated to be tested for cancer cells in the body? This point must be checked with the attending physician. He determines this on an individual basis. But, as a rule, patients who have undergone radical treatment of the disease should be examined every 3-4 months.

Training

Before submitting a biomaterial, you must adhere to the following rules:

• exclude any meals at least 8 hours in advance (it is allowed to drink non-carbonated water);
• for 24 hours, you must refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages.

Directly on the day of the test for cancer cells in the body, you need to make sure that there are no symptoms of any inflammatory process. It is also undesirable for women to undergo a study during menstruation.

In addition, when assessing the dynamics, it is recommended to donate blood each time in the same laboratory. This is due to the fact that different institutions use different reagents, which, in turn, differ from each other in the degree of sensitivity.

Blood chemistry

The method identifies abnormalities that may be a sign of cancer. It should be borne in mind that the same changes are characteristic of many non-oncological diseases, so the results cannot be interpreted unambiguously.

The doctor analyzes the following indicators:

• Total protein. Cancer cells feed on protein, and if the patient has no appetite, then its volume is significantly reduced. In some cancers, the volume of protein, on the contrary, increases.
• Urea, creatinine. Their increase is a sign of poor kidney function or intoxication, in which the protein in the body is actively decomposed.
• Sugar. Many malignant tumors (sarcoma, cancer of the lung, liver, uterus, breast) are accompanied by signs of diabetes mellitus with changes in blood sugar levels, since the body does not produce insulin well.
• Bilirubin. An increase in its volume may be a symptom of malignant liver damage.
• Enzymes ALT, AST. The increased volume is evidence of a possible liver tumor.
• Alkaline phosphatase. Another enzyme, the increase of which can be a sign of malignant changes in bones and bone tissue, gallbladder, liver, ovaries, uterus.
• Cholesterol. With a significant decrease in volume, suspicion of liver cancer or metastases to this organ is possible.

Blood sampling is performed from a vein. You need to take it on an empty stomach.

This is a more detailed blood test that can also help determine the symptoms of cancer cells in the body. If the patient was faced with the question of what tests need to be passed in order to exclude oncology, then the first thing to think about. this is a biochemical blood test.

1. Total protein and albumin. A malignant tumor can actively consume protein, which leads to a decrease in it in the blood. A person loses appetite, this leads to the fact that the necessary protein ceases to enter the patient's body. If cancer affects the liver, then even with sufficient nutrition, the amount of protein will rapidly decrease.
2. Urea. If this indicator is higher than normal, it will indicate that proteins are actively decomposed in the body, or it may become a signal that the kidneys are malfunctioning. Usually, an increase in urea is observed with the decay of tumor tissues, or with intoxication of the body with tumor cells.
3. Sugar level. If the sugar level is higher or lower than normal, this may also indicate the development of cancers in the organs. Such a problem indicates sarcoma, lung cancer, the formation of tumors in the reproductive system, as well as liver cancer and other oncologies. The tumor prevents insulin from being fully produced, which leads to a sharp increase in blood glucose levels. Several years before the first symptoms of cancer, signs of diabetes may appear.
4. Bilirubin. Indicators increase if tumor cells begin to affect the liver.
5. ALAT. The amount of this enzyme increases when a patient develops a tumor, but its increase can occur in other diseases.
6. Increased alkaline phosphatase levels. This suggests that a tumor of bone tissue and liver develops in the body, and this is also a sign of bone metastases.

To carry out such an analysis, blood is taken from a vein in the laboratory. It is recommended to take the biomaterial before breakfast so that the indicators are as accurate as possible.

A blood test for biochemistry plays a lesser role than a general clinical one in the diagnosis of cancer. This is due to the fact that in the initial stages of cancer, almost all biochemical parameters of a person are normal, except for an increase in C-reactive protein.

Liver transaminases are almost always normal, except for liver and gallbladder tumors. In these cancers, ALT, AST, and bilirubin can be elevated. Creatinine may be elevated in gastric and pancreatic cancer.

Diagnostic cost

Interpreting Results

It is important to understand that if some analysis has detected cancer cells, this is not a reason for a diagnosis. It should always be confirmed using other diagnostic methods, including instrumental ones.

There are the following norms for the level of tumor markers in the blood:

1. AFP - no more than 8 IU / ml. A deviation from the norm may indicate inflammatory processes in the liver, kidneys, or fetal malformations during pregnancy.
2. CEA - no more than 5 ng / ml. An increase in its level in the blood gives grounds to suspect diseases of the liver, organs of the gastrointestinal tract or lungs.
3. CA 125 - no more than 30 IU / ml. Even a slight increase in it in most cases indicates the malignancy of the process. However, sometimes its increase is associated with endometriosis or liver pathologies.
4. CA 15-3 - no more than 22 U / ml. With a slight increase in the level of this oncomarker, one can suspect diseases and tumors of the mammary glands of a benign nature, autoimmune processes or liver pathologies.
5. CA 19-9 - no more than 37 U / ml. Its concentration can be increased in diseases of the gallbladder, respiratory system or liver.
6. CA 72-4 - no more than 6.9 U / ml. A value greater than the norm may indicate inflammatory processes in the organs of the reproductive system and autoimmune pathologies.
7. CYFRA 21-1 - no more than 3.3 ng / l. A level slightly above normal may indicate liver, kidney, or lung disease.
8. PSA - no more than 4 ng / l. A slight deviation from the norm allows you to suspect prostatitis.
9. CA 242 - no more than 30 IU / ml. An increase in the indicator can signal the development of an inflammatory process in the pancreas.

Thus, interpreting the results is a complex process. What analysis shows cancer cells, only a specialist can determine. Self-study of the conclusion leads to erroneous reasoning.

Cytological examination

This is the most informative type of laboratory examination, which accurately determines the presence or absence of malignant cells.

The analysis consists of removing a tiny area of \u200b\u200btissue in which a cancer is suspected, and then examining it under a microscope. Modern endoscopic technologies make it possible to collect biomaterial from any organ - skin, liver, lungs, bone marrow, lymph nodes.

Cytology is the study of cellular structure and function. Cancer cells differ significantly from healthy tissue cells, therefore, in laboratory research, it is possible to accurately determine the malignancy of the neoplasm.

For cytological examination, the following biomaterials are used:

• prints from the skin, mucous membranes;
• liquids in the form of urine, sputum;
• washings from internal organs obtained during endoscopy;
• tissue samples obtained by puncture with a fine needle.

This diagnostic method is used for preventive examinations, clarifying the diagnosis, planning and monitoring treatment, to identify relapses. It is simple, safe for the patient, and results can be obtained within 24 hours.

Where to take it?

Cancer cell testing is performed in most laboratories for a fee. There is also an opportunity to donate blood in oncological dispensaries under a medical policy.

Oncology does not have any strictly specific initial symptoms. The development of a tumor in the body proceeds individually and depends on many factors - the localization of the pathological process, stage, state of the body, and so on.

Despite the fact that these symptoms can manifest themselves in various pathologies - from infectious to cardiological, when they appear, it is imperative to pass a general blood test.

Instrumental diagnostics

In order to examine the entire body for the presence of a malignant formation, it is required to pass general tests and make an x-ray of all organs.

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

To be tested for cancer, to determine where the tumor is and at what stage, a series of examinations is prescribed.

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

In order to diagnose a pathological neoplasm, an ultrasound scan can also be prescribed. However, the procedure is effective only in cases where the tumor has reached a certain size.

This method allows you to establish the exact size of an overgrown tumor, as well as determine the structure and contours of the formation. Biopsy is often done under ultrasound guidance.

If general analyzes have shown the presence of pathological processes in the body and, depending on which organs are affected by the neoplasm, the patient is prescribed the following diagnostic methods:

Based on the research results, further treatment is determined at the second consultation of the oncologist. In some cases, additional tests may be required.

If a cancer is suspected or a malignant neoplasm is detected, the patient needs to undergo more detailed examinations to determine the location of the tumor, its volume, the degree of damage to other organs and systems (the presence of metastases), and also to develop an effective treatment program.

Modern clinics offer the following types of instrumental examinations:

• magnetic resonance imaging (with or without contrast agent);
• computed tomography (with and without the use of a contrast X-ray substance);
• survey radiography in direct and lateral projection;
• contrast radiography (irrigography, hysterosalpingography);
• ultrasound examination with dopplerography;
• endoscopic examination (fibrogastroscopy, colonoscopy, bronchoscopy);
• radionuclide diagnostics (scintigraphy and positron emission tomography combined with computerized tomography).

These types of examinations allow you to accurately determine cancer.

Finally

A record high number of people, both young and old, die from cancer every year in the world. Currently, there is an opportunity to timely identify a malignant disease at the earliest stage and successfully cope with it. To do this, it is necessary to periodically donate blood for tumor markers.

This is especially true for persons at risk for a high probability of developing a serious pathology. The analysis does not require special training, it is enough to follow the standard recommendations.

When is it necessary to be screened for cancer?

There is a list of factors that increase the risk of pathology formation. The risk group includes the following categories of patients:

CM-Clinic

Timely diagnosis plays a decisive role in the treatment of oncological (cancerous) pathologies. To accurately establish the presence of cancer, a set of diagnostic measures is required. However, often about dangerous changes in the body are warned by elementary tests of blood, feces or urine, which can be taken in any laboratory. If there are deviations in the indicators, the doctor will develop an individual examination program and determine which tests to take for oncology in order to dispel or confirm suspicions.

Analysis of urine

Cancer of the urinary system manifests itself as blood in the urine. Also, urine may contain ketone bodies, which indicate tissue breakdown. However, these symptoms also accompany diseases not related to oncology, for example, they speak of the presence of stones in the bladder or kidneys, diabetes mellitus.

For the diagnosis of other cancers, urinalysis is not helpful. It cannot be used to judge the presence of oncological diseases, however, deviations in the readings from the norm indicate health problems. If the deviations are serious and are confirmed by the results of other basic tests, then this is a reason to conduct special tests to determine cancer.

The exception is multiple myeloma, in which a specific Bens-Jones protein is determined in the urine.

For the study, morning urine is collected in a sterile container, which can be purchased at the pharmacy. First you need to take a shower.

Stool analysis

Blood can also be contained in feces, and it is almost impossible to visually notice it. Laboratory analysis will help to identify its presence.

The presence of blood in the stool is a sign of bowel cancer (most often of the colon), but it is also a symptom of many benign gastrointestinal diseases. Polyps in the intestines can bleed. And it should be remembered that polyps tend to degenerate into a malignant tumor. In any case, the presence of blood in the stool is a reason to undergo a deeper diagnosis, to pass tests to detect cancer.

Feces are also collected in a sterile container in the morning.

What blood test shows oncology

Many patients are convinced that it is possible to detect cancer by a blood test. In fact, there are several types of this diagnostic procedure, from a general analysis to an analysis for tumor markers. There are the following types of cancer diagnostics based on blood tests with varying degrees of information content:

• general analysis;
• biochemical analysis;
• blood clotting test;
• immunological blood test (for tumor markers).

Even if the oncological disease has not yet manifested itself as painful symptoms, negative changes are already taking place in the body, which can be recorded by a blood test. When a malignant tumor grows, it destroys healthy cells that are used for the body's growth and releases toxic substances. These changes are noticeable even with a general blood test, but they can also be a sign of dozens of diseases not related to cancer.

The most informative is the analysis for tumor markers - specific substances that are released into the blood as a result of the vital activity of tumor cells. However, given that tumor markers are found in the body of any person, and their number increases with inflammation, then this analysis does not 100% prove the presence of cancer. It becomes just an excuse to pass more reliable tests to determine oncology.

Will cancer show a complete blood count

This analysis does not provide complete information about the presence of a tumor in the body. However, this is one of the basic studies that helps to identify cancer at an early stage, when it is not yet showing symptoms. Therefore, if you determine which tests to pass to check for cancer, then you need to start with it.

The following changes in the structure of the blood may indicate malignant processes in the body:

• decrease in the number of lymphocytes;
• increase or decrease in the number of leukocytes;
• decrease in hemoglobin;
• low platelets;
• increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR);
• an increase in the number of neutrophils;
• the presence of immature blood cells.

If a patient, in the presence of one or several of the listed symptoms, experiences weakness, gets tired quickly, loses appetite and weight, it is imperative to undergo a more detailed examination.

Blood is donated on an empty stomach or at least 4 hours after a meal. The fence is drawn from the finger.

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Blood chemistry

The method identifies abnormalities that may be a sign of cancer. It should be borne in mind that the same changes are characteristic of many non-oncological diseases, so the results cannot be interpreted unambiguously.

The doctor analyzes the following indicators:

• Total protein. Cancer cells feed on protein, and if the patient has no appetite, then its volume is significantly reduced. In some cancers, the volume of protein, on the contrary, increases.
• Urea, creatinine. Their increase is a sign of poor kidney function or intoxication, in which the protein in the body is actively decomposed.
• Sugar. Many malignant tumors (sarcoma, cancer of the lung, liver, uterus, breast) are accompanied by signs of diabetes mellitus with changes in blood sugar levels, since the body does not produce insulin well.
• Bilirubin. An increase in its volume may be a symptom of malignant liver damage.
• Enzymes ALT, AST. The increased volume is evidence of a possible liver tumor.
• Alkaline phosphatase. Another enzyme, the increase of which can be a sign of malignant changes in bones and bone tissue, gallbladder, liver, ovaries, uterus.
• Cholesterol. With a significant decrease in volume, it is possible to suspect liver cancer or metastases to this organ.

Blood sampling is performed from a vein. You need to take it on an empty stomach.

Blood clotting tests

With oncological diseases, blood clotting becomes higher, and blood clots can form in large and small vessels (up to capillaries). If the test results show these abnormalities, further screening for oncology will be required.

Blood for this analysis is also taken from a vein.

Immunological blood test: tumor markers

If we talk about what tests show oncology, then this examination is quite informative and allows you to determine the presence of cancer. It is also used to detect relapses after treatment.

Tumor markers are special types of protein, enzymes, or protein breakdown products. They are secreted either by the tissue of a malignant neoplasm, or by healthy tissue in response to cancer cells. Now the existence of more than 200 of their species has been scientifically proven.

In a small amount, tumor markers are present in the body of a healthy person, their volume increases moderately, for example, with a cold, as well as in women during pregnancy, in men with prostate adenoma. However, the appearance in a large volume of certain specific types is characteristic of certain tumors. For example, tumor markers CEA and CA-15-3 can signal breast cancer, and CA 125 and HE-4 - ovarian cancer. To obtain the most objective result, it is recommended to take an analysis for several tumor markers.

By increasing the level of one or another tumor marker, you can determine which organ or system is affected by the tumor. Also, this analysis is able to show that a person is at risk of developing cancer. For example, in men, an increase in the PSA tumor marker becomes a harbinger of prostate cancer.

Immunological analysis is taken on an empty stomach, blood is taken from a vein. Also, tumor markers are determined by urine analysis.

Cytological examination

This is the most informative type of laboratory examination, which accurately determines the presence or absence of malignant cells.

The analysis consists of removing a tiny area of \u200b\u200btissue in which a cancer is suspected, and then examining it under a microscope. Modern endoscopic technologies make it possible to collect biomaterial from any organ - skin, liver, lungs, bone marrow, lymph nodes.

Cytology is the study of cellular structure and function. Cancer cells differ significantly from healthy tissue cells, therefore, in laboratory research, it is possible to accurately determine the malignancy of the neoplasm.

For cytological examination, the following biomaterials are used:

• prints from the skin, mucous membranes;
• liquids in the form of urine, sputum;
• washings from internal organs obtained during endoscopy;
• tissue samples obtained by puncture with a fine needle.

This diagnostic method is used for preventive examinations, clarifying the diagnosis, planning and monitoring treatment, to identify relapses. It is simple, safe for the patient, and results can be obtained within 24 hours.

Instrumental diagnostics

If a cancer is suspected or a malignant neoplasm is detected, the patient needs to undergo more detailed examinations to determine the location of the tumor, its volume, the degree of damage to other organs and systems (the presence of metastases), and also to develop an effective treatment program. For this, a set of instrumental examinations is used. It includes various types of diagnostics, depending on the suspicion of a particular disease.

Modern clinics offer the following types of instrumental examinations:

• magnetic resonance imaging (with or without contrast agent);
• computed tomography (with and without the use of a contrast X-ray substance);
• survey radiography in direct and lateral projection;
• contrast radiography (irrigography, hysterosalpingography);
• ultrasound examination with dopplerography;
• endoscopic examination (fibrogastroscopy, colonoscopy, bronchoscopy);
• radionuclide diagnostics (scintigraphy and positron emission tomography combined with computerized tomography).

These types of examinations allow you to accurately determine cancer.

Examinations for suspected cancer at the CM-Clinic oncology center

Update: December 2018

In modern oncology, it is the early diagnosis of the tumor process that plays a huge role. Further survival and quality of life of patients depends on this. Cancer alertness is very important, as cancer can manifest itself in the last stages or mask its symptoms as other diseases.

Risk groups for the development of malignant neoplasms

There are many theories of the development of cancer, but none of them gives a detailed answer why it still arises. Doctors can only assume that this or that factor accelerates carcinogenesis (growth of tumor cells).

Cancer risk factors:

• Racial and ethnic predisposition - German scientists have established a trend: white-skinned people develop melanoma 5 times more often than black people.
• Diet disorder - a person's diet must be balanced, any shift in the ratio of proteins, fats and carbohydrates can lead to metabolic disorders, and as a consequence to the occurrence of malignant neoplasms. For example, scientists have shown that excessive consumption of foods that increase cholesterol leads to the development of lung cancer, and excessive intake of easily digestible carbohydrates increases the risk of breast cancer. Also, the abundance of chemical additives in food (flavor enhancers, preservatives, nitrate, etc.), genetically modified foods increase the risk.
• Obesity - According to American studies, being overweight increases the risk of cancer by 55% in women and 45% in men.
• Smoking - WHO doctors have proven that there is a direct causal relationship between smoking and cancer (lips, tongue, oropharynx, bronchi, lungs). In the UK, a study was conducted that showed that people who smoke 1.5-2 packs of cigarettes a day are 25 times more likely to develop lung cancer than non-smokers.
• Heredity - there are certain types of cancer that are inherited in an autosomal recessive and autosomal dominant pattern, for example, ovarian cancer or familial intestinal polyposis.
• Exposure to ionizing radiation and ultraviolet rays - Ionizing radiation of natural and industrial origin causes activation of pro-oncogenes of thyroid cancer, and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays during insolation (sunburn) contributes to the development of malignant melanoma of the skin.
• Immune disorders - a decrease in the activity of the immune system (primary and secondary immunodeficiencies, iatrogenic immunosuppression) leads to the development of tumor cells.
• Professional activity - this category includes people in contact with chemical carcinogens (resins, dyes, soot, heavy metals, aromatic carbohydrates, asbestos, sand) and electromagnetic radiation in the course of their work.
• Features of reproductive age in women - early first menstruation (under 14 years old) and late menopause (over 55 years old) increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer by 5 times. At the same time, pregnancy and childbirth reduce the tendency of the appearance of neoplasms of the reproductive organs.

Symptoms that may be signs of cancer

• Long-term non-healing wounds, fistulas
• Discharge, ribbon-like feces. Dysfunction of the bladder and intestines.
• Deformation of the mammary glands, the appearance of swelling in other parts of the body.
• Dramatic weight loss, decreased appetite, difficulty swallowing.
• Changes in the color and shape of moles or birthmarks
• Frequent or unusual discharge in women.
• not amenable to therapy,.

General principles of diagnostics of malignant neoplasms

After consulting a doctor, the patient should receive full information about which tests indicate cancer. It is impossible to determine oncology by blood test, it is nonspecific in relation to neoplasms. Clinical and biochemical studies are aimed primarily at determining the patient's condition with tumor intoxication and studying the work of organs and systems.
A general blood test for oncology reveals:

• leukopenia or (increased or decreased white blood cells)
• shift of the leukocyte formula to the left
• anemia ()
• (low platelets)
• (a constantly high ESR of more than 30 in the absence of serious complaints is a reason to sound the alarm)

A general analysis of urine in oncology can be quite informative, for example, in case of multiple myeloma, a specific Bens-Jones protein is detected in the urine. A biochemical blood test allows you to judge the state of the urinary system, liver and protein metabolism.

Changes in indicators of biochemical analysis for various neoplasms:

Index	Result	Note
	Norm - 75-85 g / l it is possible both to exceed it and to decrease it	Neoplasms usually enhance catabolic processes and protein breakdown, nonspecifically inhibit protein synthesis.
	hyperproteinemia, hypoalbuminemia, detection of paraprotein (M-gradient) in serum	Such indicators allow one to suspect multiple myeloma (malignant plasmacytoma).
Urea, creatinine	urea rate - 3-8 mmol / l creatinine norm - 40-90 μmol / l Increased urea and creatinine levels	This indicates an increased protein breakdown, an indirect sign of cancer intoxication, or a non-specific decrease in renal function.
	Increased urea with normal creatinine	Indicates the breakdown of tumor tissue.
Alkaline phosphatase	norm - 0-270 U / l ALP increase over 270 U / l	Speaks about the presence of metastases in the liver, bone tissue, osteosarcoma.
	An increase in the enzyme against the background of normal AST and ALT levels	Also, embryonic tumors of the ovaries, uterus, testicles can ectopic placental ALP isoenzyme.
ALT, AST	aLT norm - 10-40 U / l aST rate - 10-30 U / l Increase in enzymes above the upper limit of the norm	Indicates non-specific decay of liver cells (hepatocytes), which can be caused by both inflammatory and cancerous processes.
Cholesterol	the norm of total cholesterol is 3.3-5.5 mmol / l The decrease in the indicator is less than the lower limit of the norm	Speaks about malignant neoplasms of the liver (since cholesterol is formed in the liver)
Potassium	potassium norm - 3.6-5.4 mmol / l Elevated electrolyte levels with normal Na levels	Indicates cancer cachexia

A blood test for oncology also provides for the study of the hemostasis system. Due to the release of tumor cells and their fragments into the blood, it is possible to increase blood coagulability (hypercoagulation) and microthrombus formation, which impede the movement of blood along the vascular bed.

In addition to tests to determine cancer, there are a number of instrumental studies that contribute to the diagnosis of malignant neoplasms:

• Plain radiography in direct and lateral projection
• Contrast radiography (irrigography, hysterosalpingography)
• Computed tomography (with and without contrast)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (with and without contrast)
• Radionuclide method
• Doppler ultrasound examination
• Endoscopic examination (fibrogastroscopy, bronchoscopy).

Stomach cancer

Stomach cancer is the second most common tumor in the population (after lung cancer).

• Fibroesophagastroduodenoscopy is the golden method for diagnosing stomach cancer, it is necessarily accompanied by a large number of biopsies in different areas of the neoplasm and unchanged gastric mucosa.
• X-ray of the stomach using oral contrast (barium mixture) - the method was quite popular before the introduction of endoscopes into practice, it allows you to see the filling defect in the stomach on the X-ray.
• Ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs, CT, MRI - are used when searching for metastases to the lymph nodes and other organs of the digestive system (liver, spleen).
• Immunological blood test - shows stomach cancer in the early stages, when the tumor itself is not yet visible to the human eye (CA 72-4, CEA and others)

Colon Cancer Diagnosis

• Digital rectal examination - detects cancer at a distance of 9-11 cm from the anus, allows you to assess the mobility of the tumor, its elasticity, the state of adjacent tissues;
• Colonoscopy - insertion of a video endoscope into the rectum - visualizes the cancerous infiltrate up to the Bauhinia flap, allows biopsy of suspicious areas of the intestine;
• Irrigoscopy - radiology of the large intestine using double contrast (contrast-air);
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs, CT, MRI, virtual colonoscopy - visualize the growth of colon cancer and the state of adjacent organs;
• Determination of tumor markers - CEA, C 19-9, Sialosyl - TN

Mammary cancer

This malignant tumor occupies a leading place among female neoplasms. Such disappointing statistics is to some extent due to the low qualifications of doctors who are unprofessional in examining the mammary glands.

• Palpation of the gland - allows you to determine the tuberosity and swelling in the thickness of the organ and to suspect a tumor process.
• Breast X-ray (mammography) is one of the most important methods for detecting non-palpable tumors. For more informational content, artificial contrasting is used:
  • pneumocystography (removal of fluid from the tumor and the introduction of air into it) - allows you to identify parietal formations;
  • ductography - the method is based on the introduction of a contrast agent into the milk ducts; visualizes the structure and contours of the ducts, and abnormal formations in them.
• Sonography and Doppler ultrasound of the mammary glands - the results of clinical studies have proven the high efficiency of this method in the detection of microscopic intraductal cancer and abundantly supplied neoplasms.
• Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging - allow you to assess the growth of breast cancer in nearby organs, the presence of metastases and damage to regional lymph nodes.
• Immunological tests for breast cancer (tumor markers) - CA-15-3, cancer embryonic antigen (CEA), CA-72-4, prolactin, estradiol, TPS.

Thyroid cancer

Due to the increase in radiation and exposure of people over the past 30 years, the incidence of thyroid cancer has increased by 1.5 times. Basic diagnostic methods:

• Ultrasound + Doppler ultrasonography of the thyroid gland is a rather informative method, not invasive and does not carry radiation exposure.
• Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are used to diagnose the spread of a tumor process outside the thyroid gland and to detect metastases to neighboring organs.
• Positron emission tomography is a three-dimensional technique, the use of which is based on the property of a radioisotope to accumulate in the tissues of the thyroid gland.
• Radioisotope scintigraphy is a method also based on the possibility of radionuclides (or rather iodine) to accumulate in the tissues of the gland, but unlike tomography, it indicates the difference in the accumulation of radioactive iodine in healthy and tumor tissue. Cancer infiltration can look like a "cold" (not absorbing iodine) and "hot" (in excess of absorbing iodine) focus.
• Fine-needle aspiration biopsy - allows for biopsy and subsequent cytological examination of cancer cells, reveals special genetic markers hTERT, EMC1, TMPRSS4 of thyroid cancer.
• Determination of the protein galectin-3, which belongs to the class of lectins. This peptide is involved in the growth and development of tumor vessels, its metastasis and suppression of the immune system (including apoptosis). The diagnostic accuracy of this marker in malignant neoplasms of the thyroid gland is 92-95%.
• Recurrence of thyroid cancer is characterized by a decrease in thyroglobulin levels and an increase in the concentration of tumor markers EGFR, HBME-1

Esophageal carcinoma

Cancer mainly affects the lower third of the esophagus, usually preceded by intestinal metaplasia and dysplasia. The average incidence is 3.0% per 10,000 population.

• X-ray contrast examination of the esophagus and stomach using barium sulfate is recommended to clarify the degree of patency of the esophagus.
• Fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy - allows you to see cancer with your own eyes, and an advanced videoscopic technique displays the image of esophageal cancer on a large screen. In the course of the study, a biopsy of the neoplasm is required, followed by cytological diagnostics.
• Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging - visualize the degree of tumor invasion into neighboring organs, determine the state of regional groups of lymph nodes.
• Fibrobronchoscopy - necessarily performed when the cancer of the esophagus squeezes the tracheobronchial tree and allows to assess the degree of the diameter of the airways.

Tumor markers - immunological diagnosis of neoplasms

The essence of immunological diagnostics is the detection of specific tumor antigens or tumor markers. They are quite specific to specific types of cancer. A blood test for tumor markers for primary diagnosis has no practical application, but it allows you to determine the early occurrence of relapse and prevent the spread of cancer. There are more than 200 types of oncological markers in the world, but only about 30 are of diagnostic value.

Doctors impose the following requirements on tumor markers:

• Must be highly sensitive and specific
• A tumor marker must be secreted only by malignant tumor cells, and not by the body's own cells
• The tumor marker should point to one specific tumor
• Blood tests for tumor markers should increase as cancer progresses

Classification of tumor markers

All tumor markers: click to enlarge

By biochemical structure:

• Oncofetal and oncoplacental (CEA, hCG, alpha-fetoprotein)
• Tumor-associated glycoproteins (CA 125, CA 19-9. CA 15-3)
• Keratoproteins (UBC, SCC, TPA, TPS)
• Enzymatic proteins (PSA, neuron-specific enolase)
• Hormones (calcitonin)
• Other structure (ferritin, IL-10)

By value for the diagnostic process:

• The main one - it is characterized by maximum sensitivity and specificity for a particular tumor.
• Secondary - has little specificity and sensitivity, is used in combination with the main tumor marker.
• Additional - is detected with a variety of neoplasms.

Oncological marker	Indicator rate	Neoplasm in which it is detected
Bens Jones protein	norm - absent	Multiple myeloma (malignant plasmacytoma), B-cell leukemia
Alpha-fetoprotein	norm - less than 22 ng / ml	Hepatocellular carcinoma, germinal carcinomas (cancer of the ovaries, testicles and others)
Cancer embryonic antigen (CEA)	less than 5 U / ml	Colorectal tumors (colon cancer), breast cancer, lung cancer
CA-125	less than 30 U / ml	Ovarian cancer
Prostate antigen (PSA - prostate specific antigen)	less than 5 ng / ml
Chorionic gonadotropin (CG)
NSE - neuron specific enolase	12 ng / ml	Small cell lung cancer, neuroendocrine tumors
CYFRA 21-1	less than 2 ng / ml
Calcitonin	0-30 pg / ml

Today in medicine they are increasingly faced with oncological diseases. Despite the wide spread of cancerous tumors, the mechanism of their formation and spread remains unexplored. The spread of cancer is happening at an incredible rate. Most often, people of retirement age are exposed to these diseases. But if earlier this disease was considered mainly a disease of the older generation, today there is a tendency to rejuvenate the disease. Young people, adolescents and even small children are susceptible to this disease. The danger is that cancerous tumors can affect absolutely any organs. They grow, and at a certain moment the cell breaks off, enters another tissue, and attaches itself. As a result, a new tumor (metastasis) is formed. The development of tumors and the formation of metastases can be prevented if the tumor is detected in a timely manner and the necessary measures are taken. Cancer cell analysis plays a leading role in the early diagnosis of malignant tumors.

Analyzes make it possible to identify a tumor, diagnose it, and most importantly, respond in a timely manner. In the early stages, development can still be prevented. But most often, tumors are found already in the late stages, when it is often impossible to help the patient with anything. The complexity of diagnosis is that in the early stages, the tumor develops almost asymptomatically, and it can only be detected during a preventive examination or during laboratory tests.

What are the tests for cancer cells?

When conducting research for cancer, a general objective examination is carried out using various instrumental methods, and laboratory tests are also used. First, the patient is given standard clinical tests. From them you can get a general idea of \u200b\u200bthe processes that take place in the body. An increased number of leukocytes, as well as an increase in ESR, can indirectly indicate malignant neoplasms. However, this information is not enough, since in any disease, infectious or inflammatory process, these indicators also increase. Cancer can also be indicated by a sharp decrease in hemoglobin, especially when comparing indicators over time. If such signs are found, a special study is assigned to detect cancer cells.

An extended blood test is performed, during which specific markers of oncology are determined. These markers are formed immediately, at the stage of tumor initiation. Therefore, they make it possible to identify transformed cells and cancerous tumors at the initial stages of their formation.

The principle of the diagnostic method is that with the help of special test systems, tumor markers, which are produced by cancerous tumors, are detected in the blood. The more severe the stage of the disease, the greater their concentration in the blood. The body of a healthy person does not produce tumor markers. Thus, their presence is a direct confirmation of a cancerous tumor. Based on the results, one can judge the size of the tumor, its type and localization.

Test indications for cancer cells

Cancer cell testing is performed when cancer is suspected, as well as for prophylactic purposes for early diagnosis of cancerous tumors. People over 50 years old, as well as those who are at risk of developing cancer, should also be tested periodically. The analysis is carried out when a tumor is detected, the nature of which is unclear. It makes it possible to determine whether the tumor is benign or malignant. The analysis is also carried out to track the results over time in cancer patients, to check the effectiveness of the treatment.

Training

The analysis for tumor markers does not require special preparation. The only thing that is needed is to take a referral from the doctor. Then, for 2-3 days before the analysis, adhere to a light diet (do not consume alcohol, spicy, fatty, smoked foods, spices). You need to take the analysis on an empty stomach. The last meal should be 8 hours before the study. You can't drink in the morning, smoke too. Do not overload the body for several days, exclude physical labor.

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Technique for the analysis of cancer cells

There are many techniques. It all depends on the type of research. If a blood test is performed to determine tumor markers, it is performed by enzyme immunoassay. This method is based on the agglutination reaction, during which a marker of an oncological tumor acts as a foreign agent for the body (antigen). The immune system immediately reacts to it by producing an antibody. The action of antibodies is aimed at the destruction of a foreign organism and its further elimination. The antibody finds an antigen that is a marker of a cancer, attacks it and stimulates destruction. During this struggle, antigen and antibody merge with each other, an agglutination reaction occurs. It is these complexes that are detected during the analysis when antibodies are introduced into the blood.

For this, blood is taken from the patient in the required amount. A few drops of heparin are added to prevent clotting. Then the blood is delivered to the laboratory. There, blood is separated into fractions. Serum is isolated separately, since tumor markers are found in serum. For this, centrifugation is used. With the help of a special apparatus - a centrifuge, the blood in the test tube is rotated at a large number of revolutions. As a result, all blood cells settle to the bottom, the test tube contains only serum. With her and carry out further manipulations.

A special set for analysis (ELISA) is taken, a certain amount of blood serum is added to the bottom of the cell. A special antibody is added to the cancer. Wait for several hours. If a complexation reaction occurs, during which antibodies and antigens merge, it means that an antigen is present in the blood, which acts as a tumor marker indicating the presence of a cancerous tumor. Antigen-antibody complex formation can be seen with the naked eye as turbidity and flocculation appear in the test tube. The amount of tumor markers can be judged by the degree of turbidity. But for the accuracy of the results, special measurements are made. An international turbidity standard or spectrophotometer is used, which determines its concentration by the angle of refraction of light passing through the solution and gives a ready result.

There is another method - immunomagnetic differentiation of blood fractions. For this, a special device is used, which makes it possible to detect oncological cells by determining tumor markers that attach to the changed cell and become visible in a magnetic field. The accuracy of this method is quite high - even out of a million healthy cells, one cancer can be found.

Also, with the help of such analyzes, you can establish the exact number of cancer cells, the rate of their spread and predict the growth dynamics. Also, the advantage of these analyzes is that they make it possible to monitor the course of treatment, determine the effectiveness of therapy, as well as select drugs and their optimal dosage with high accuracy. Dosing accuracy plays a leading role in treatment, since it allows you to effectively fight complications, reduce the number of cancer cells, and also prevent the development of metastases. In addition, the correct dosage reduces the toxic effect of drugs on the body.

There is also a biopsy study method, in which a piece of tissue is taken for research. Then a cytological and histological examination is carried out. Analysis for cytology involves the preparation of a micropreparation from the obtained tissue sample for further study of its properties under a microscope. The main morphological and anatomical properties are being studied. A micropreparation from a healthy tissue sample differs sharply from that of a cancerous tumor. There are certain differences in structure, appearance and intracellular processes taking place. Special inclusions can also indicate a cancerous tumor.

In a histological study, tissue is sown on special nutrient media intended for growing tissue culture. For 7 days, the inoculation is cultivated under special conditions, after which the nature of tumor growth, speed and direction are monitored. This has important diagnostic value.

A blood test for cancer

The fastest way to determine cancer is to have a blood test. Such a study is carried out within 1-2 days, and if necessary, urgent results can be obtained in 3-4 hours. This is an express method that still requires additional clarifying research. However, this is quite enough for obtaining a preliminary diagnosis and accurate identification of the tumor. The analysis makes it possible to determine even the exact localization of the tumor and the stage of the oncological process.

The patient's blood serves as the research material. The analysis is carried out in the morning on an empty stomach. It is mainly used to confirm or refute the diagnosis, makes it possible to differentiate a benign tumor from a malignant one. It is also used to track indicators in dynamics in order to determine the effectiveness of treatment, control the state of the tumor and prevent relapse.

The principle of the method is to determine the main antigens that are produced by cancer cells during tumor development. When they are found, it can be said for sure that a person has cancer. However, if such tumor markers were not found, a negative result is not given. In this case, additional studies are prescribed.

The localization of the tumor can be determined by the type of tumor marker. Detection of CA19-9 antigen in the patient's blood, we can talk about pancreatic cancer. CEA marker indicates the localization of the tumor in the intestine, liver, kidneys, lungs and other internal organs. If CA-125 is found, it indicates an oncological process in the ovaries or appendages. PSA and CA-15-3 markers indicate prostate and breast cancer, respectively. CA72-3 indicates stomach cancer and lung cancer, B-2-MG indicates leukemia, leukemia, myeloma. With liver cancer and metastases, ACE appears. A blood test is not the only confirmation method. It must be used in conjunction with many other factors.

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Cervical cancer cell test

Cancer cells of the cervix can be determined using a blood test, which is aimed at identifying a tumor marker. As a rule, CEA, or cancer embryonic antigen, is detected in such cases. Also, for the study, a smear is taken from the vagina, cervix. First, a preliminary cytological examination is performed. In the course of the analysis for cytology, transformed cells and specific inclusions, indicating oncological processes, can be detected.

Fetal Cancer Antigen Test

It is an antigen that is used to diagnose and treat cancer of the stomach, intestines, rectum, female reproductive organs and mammary glands. In an adult, it is produced in small quantities by the bronchi and lungs, and is found in the composition of many biological fluids and secretions. The indicator is its amount, which increases sharply in oncology. It should be borne in mind that its amount can be increased in people suffering from autoimmune diseases, tuberculosis, benign tumors and even smokers. Therefore, the detection of a high concentration of these markers (20 ng / ml and higher) is only an indirect confirmation of cancer and a number of additional studies must be carried out. Also, this indicator needs to be tracked in dynamics in order to be able to draw full conclusions. The study material is venous blood. The antigen is found in the blood serum.

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Cancer cell mutation test

By epidermal growth factor receptor is meant a transmembrane receptor that interacts with extracellular ligands of epidermal growth factors. It takes part in the formation of cancerous tumors of many organs, in particular, it is a reliable sign of lung cancer. The fact is that normally the main genes are aimed at ensuring control over the growth and reproduction of body cells. Cells grow, multiply up to a certain limit, after which the gene signals the termination of further reproduction, and the cells stop dividing.

The gene also controls the process of apoptosis - the timely death of old, obsolete cells. With mutations in genes, they cease to control reproduction (proliferation) and dying off (apoptosis), signal continuous growth, as a result of which cells grow indefinitely and constantly, uncontrollably divide. This leads to the formation of a cancerous tumor, which is characterized by the ability to grow indefinitely. In its most primitive form, cancer can be thought of as uncontrolled cell division and immortality. Also, the process is considered as the inability of the cell to die off in time.

Chemotherapy and various anticancer drugs are aimed specifically at destroying and inactivating this gene. If it is possible to inhibit its activity, then the development of cancer can be stopped. But over the long years of treatment with such targeted drugs, the gene, like any organism, has undergone an adaptation, and it has become resistant to a number of means.

After that, the drugs were improved, their formula changed, they again became active against this gene. But the gene itself is also being improved: it has also mutated several times, each time developing resistance to drugs. Over the years, many varieties of mutations of this gene have accumulated, over 25. This entails the ineffectiveness of specific therapy. In order not to waste time on vain treatment, which will not be effective, an analysis is performed to determine the mutation of this gene.

For example, detection of mutations in the KRAS gene indicates that treatment of lung and colon cancer with tyrosine kinase inhibitors will be ineffective. If mutations are found in the ALK and ROS1 gene, this suggests that crizotinib should be prescribed, which quickly and effectively inhibits this gene and prevents further tumor development. The BRAF gene leads to the formation of melanoma tumors.

Today, there are drugs that can block the activity of this gene and change its mindset for unlimited growth. This causes the tumor to slow down or stop growing. In combination with anticancer drugs, significant results can be achieved in treatment, up to a reduction in the size of the tumor.

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Stool analysis for cancer cells

Usually, the essence of the analysis is to detect occult blood in the feces. This sign may indicate the presence of an oncological process in the colon or rectum. People over 45-50 years old who are most at risk of developing cancerous tumors need to take this test annually. This may indicate other pathologies, but then additional research is needed for differential diagnosis. This is an early diagnostic method, which makes it possible to identify a tumor at the stage of its inception and take measures for treatment. Often, even a precancerous condition can be detected using this method.

Cancer biopsy

This is a study that gives the most accurate and reliable results. Consists of two stages. At the first stage, biological material is taken for further research. The material is a piece of tissue taken directly from the organ in which the tumor is located. In fact, with the help of special equipment and instruments, the doctor cuts off a piece of the tumor and transfers it to the laboratory for further research. The collection is usually performed using local anesthesia.

At the second stage, the biological material is subjected to further cytological and histological examination. During a cytological study, a microscope is prepared, and it is studied under a microscope. According to the general picture, appearance, nature of inclusions, you can preliminarily make an input about whether the tumor is benign or malignant. This stage does not exceed 30 minutes.

After that, the tissue is soaked and sown in a special nutrient medium, which contains all the conditions for cell growth. The culture is placed in optimal conditions, in an incubator, kept for a month. The study is quite long and is determined by the rate of cell growth. If it is a cancerous tumor, it will begin to grow actively. A benign, non-cancerous tumor does not grow. To accelerate growth, growth factors can be added, which further stimulate tumor growth. In this case, the results can be obtained within 7-10 days.

The grown tumor is subjected to further biochemical, microscopic examinations and, ultimately, the result is given in the form of a final diagnosis, in which the type of tumor, its stage, prevalence and direction of tumor growth are determined. This is usually the final version, which determines the result with 100% accuracy.

Most people subconsciously experience an almost panic fear of cancer. This terrible disease has become a real scourge of our time, and according to statistics, every year the number of cancer patients around the world only increases, and no cure for cancer has been found.

Such statistics also do not add confidence and calmness, only increasing panic and fear of illness.

What is the analysis for cancer cells

And in the meantime, in order to live in peace and stop experiencing attacks of fear of oncology, it is enough to simply conduct a blood test for tumor markers, that is, donate blood to detect cancer cells.

Despite the fact that a cure for cancer has not been invented, with early diagnosis and detection of cancer in the early stages, it is possible to stop the spread of the disease, and the prognosis for cancer is positive in the overwhelming majority of cases.

In order to start treatment at an early stage, patients are referred for a blood test for cancer cells. In this case, according to tumor markers, and these are specific proteins or antigens that are secreted by cancer cells. Identification of these proteins enables doctors to correctly diagnose, detect cancer at the first stage, when it is still operable or amenable to chemotherapy or radiation treatment and has not metastases.

Today it has been clinically proven that antigens that are detected during the analysis remain specific proteins for each specific organ. In addition, in a healthy cell, their production is simply suppressed. Thus, the appearance of a specific protein immediately indicates that the pathological process of the development of a malignant tumor begins in the body.

In a healthy person, which is confirmed by a blood test, these specific proteins must either be completely absent, or present, but in negligible amounts.

Consideration of the analysis for tumor markers

Clinical indicators and values \u200b\u200bin the process of identifying, reviewing and evaluating the results of cancer treatment are always considered at the level of circulating antigens and specific proteins in the patient's blood. Accordingly, these antigens are detected as a result of analysis in human blood.

An interesting fact remains information that the normal level of these specific proteins remains individual for each person. Since it is unrealistic to determine one universal norm, the main criterion for the normal state of proteins is the dynamics of changes in their concentration in the patient's body.

For this, a measurement is made for a certain time, during which blood tests for cancer cells are carried out. If during the selected period of time the protein concentration does not change or increase, then the analysis is negative and there is simply nothing to worry about. By the way, thanks to such analyzes, a gene was identified that.

Another important point in the analysis for tumor markers can explain the presence of a sharp jump in the concentration of a specific protein in the body not by cancer, but simply by inflammation of an internal organ. As practice shows, it is the inflammatory process that is most often responsible for a sharp increase in the concentration of antigens.

Such data once again prove that for accurate diagnosis and the correct choice of treatment regimen, the results of the analysis for cancer cells must be rechecked several times with new biological materials for analyzes.

Only one laboratory analysis can not always give an accurate picture of the problem, and does not make it possible to make an accurate diagnosis. It is also important that the normal index of cancer cells does not yet exclude the presence of a malignant tumor in the body by 100%. A moderate amount of a specific protein in tumor markers may indicate the presence of a tumor in the body, but of a benign nature.

Thus, only correct diagnostics with repeated analysis and confirmation can make an accurate diagnosis.

Main tumor markers

PSA a specific antigen, an enzyme that can be secreted in the body by both a healthy gland and a prostate adenoma or cancer prone. In this case, this indicator is considered exclusively in complex diagnostics, since it is not informative in its own form. In addition, PSA levels rise in the human body with age.

REA cancer-embryonic antigen. In colon cancer, this tumor marker can be diagnosed at a high concentration, in addition, monitoring its condition allows tracking the process of tumor changes.

This specific protein is also found in tumors of the lungs, liver, pancreas, breast, bladder, prostate and cervix.

In the absence of a cancerous tumor in the body, a slight increase in this protein can be observed in heavy smokers and in people suffering from liver cirrhosis.

AFP alpha-fetoprotein. An increase in the concentration of this protein can be diagnosed in the first stage of liver cancer. In addition, the concentration of this antigen increases in malignant neoplasms in the gastrointestinal tract. Interestingly, there is an increased concentration of protein in a benign liver tumor. Therefore, an independent analysis only for this tumor marker may also not be completely informative.

Beta-hCG human chorionic gonadotropin belongs to tumor markers that indicate the development of certain types of cancer of the embryonic type of neuroblastoma, nephroblastoma. Information will be useful to the reader, it is possible in addition to searching for oncology.

CA 125 cancer antigen 125. An increase in the concentration of this protein in the blood is observed in 80% of patients with ovarian cancer. In addition, a high level of concentration of this ocomarker is found in endometriosis, as well as in some other types of cancer. Determined in the complex.

CA 15-3 cancer antigen 15-3, this antigen is found in patients with metastatic breast cancer.

CA 19-9 it is not a sufficiently specific marker of gastrointestinal tract cancer, which is also considered in combination with other tumor markers, and alone cannot be considered fully informative.

Important! The presence of a malignant tumor in the body in rare cases can be indicated by the simplest blood chemistry.

Consider the main indicators in the blood test, which may indicate a malignant neoplasm:

• an increase in alkaline phosphatase may be the first sign of metastatic bone tumor,
• increased acid phosphatase activity is common in prostate cancer, especially with bone metastases,
• an increased level of lactate dehydrogenase may indicate the presence of tumors with metastases or leukemia