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Tests could include:
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Endoscopic Ultrasound
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Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)
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Fine needle aspiration of pancreas
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Cytodiagnosis
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Fine needle aspiration biopsy
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Abdominal CT scanAbdominal MRIAbdominal ultrasoundEndoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)Endoscopic ultrasoundPancreatic biopsyThis disease may also affect the results of the following tests:Liver function testsSerum bilirubin.
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If pancreatic cancer is suspected, regardless of the cause, a physical exam often is done first and then certain body imaging tests may be recommended. One imaging test that may be done is a computed tomography(CT) scan.
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If pancreatic cancer is suspected, regardless of the cause, a physical exam often is done first, and certain body imaging tests may be recommended. One imaging test that may be done is a computed tomography(CT) scan.
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An abdominal CT scan is an imaging method that uses x-rays to create cross-sectional pictures of the belly area. CT stands for computed tomography.
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During a physical examination, a health care provider studies a patient''s body to determine the presence or absence of physical problems.
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Abdominal ultrasound is an imaging procedure used to examine the internal organs of the abdomen, including the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. The blood vessels that lead to some of these organs can also be looked at with ultras...
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Abdominal ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to produce two-dimensional images of the body''s soft tissues, which are used for a variety of clinical applications, including diagnosis and guidance of treatment procedures. Ultrasound does not...
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Abdominal ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to form pictures of your abdominal organs. It can help detect organ problems, such as gallstones, kidney stones, or liver disease.
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Abdominal ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to produce two-dimensional images of the body''s soft tissues, which are used for a variety of clinical applications, including diagnosis and guidance of treatment procedures. Ultrasound does not...
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This technique is used extensively to investigate valve defects, arteriosclerosis and hypertension, particularly in the heart, but also in the abdominal aorta and the portal vein of the liver. These machines cost about$250,000.The actual procedure...
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The images can be stored on a computer or printed on film. One exam produces dozens or sometimes hundreds of images.Nuclear magnetic resonance- abdomen; NMR- abdomen; Magnetic resonance imaging- abdomen; MRI of the abdomen.You may be asked to wear...
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Magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) scanners rely on the principles of atomic nuclear-spin resonance. Using strong magnetic fields and radio waves, MRI collects and correlates deflections caused by atoms into images.
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Detailed information on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including information on how the procedure is performed
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A biliary tract biopsy is a procedure that involves taking a sample of tissue or material from the duodenum, bile ducts, pancreas, or pancreatic duct. The sample is then tested for cancer or other diseases.Tissue or material samples can be obtaine...
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Many of the tests can show whether there is a tumor in your pancreas or in the areas nearby. Based on these tests, your doctor will probably have a good idea whether you have pancreatic cancer. A biopsy can confirm for sure that you have cancer. It can also let your doctor know what kind of pancreatic cancer you have. The biopsy may be done as a separate procedure, during another test, or during surgery to remove the pancreas. A biopsy is usually done in one of these 3 ways.
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Your doctor took a biopsy to determine that you had cancer. The doctor did this by taking a sample of cells or fluid from an area that looked suspicious in your pancreas. Your doctor needs to know the cancer's stage, which shows how much and where the cancer has spread, in order to suggest the best treatment for you. Your doctor may have learned the stage of your cancer during diagnostic tests, such as computed tomography (CT) scan or ultrasound. Your doctor may now ask for more tests.
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Cytology is the examination of individual cells and small clusters of cells, and may be used for the diagnosis and screening of diseases, including cancers. Cytology can also be referred to as cytopathology.Diagnostic tests are used to detect a di...
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Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) is a procedure used to identify stones, tumors, or narrowing in the bile ducts. The procedure is done through an endoscope.An intravenous(IV) line is placed in your arm.
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Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) is a technique in which a hollow tube called an endoscope is passed through the mouth and stomach to the duodenum(the first part of the small intestine). This procedure was developed to examine ...
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ERCP stands for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. This procedure is used to view the common bile duct to help locate and treat blockages in the duct. It may also be used to locate pancreas problems.
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Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) is an imaging technique used to diagnose diseases of the pancreas, liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. It combines endoscopy and x-ray imaging.ERCP is used in the management of diseases that aff...
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Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) is a technique in which a hollow tube called an endoscope is passed through the mouth and stomach to the duodenum(the first part of the small intestine). This procedure was developed to examine ...
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Carcinoembryonic antigen(CEA) is a protein normally found in the tissue of developing baby in the womb. Blood levels of this protein disappear or become very low after birth.
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The carcinoembryonic antigen(CEA) test is a laboratory blood study. CEA is a substance which is normally found only during fetal development, but may reappear in adults who develop certain types of cancer.The CEA test is ordered for patients with ...
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A biopsy is the removal of a small piece of tissue for laboratory examination.
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Tumor markers are a group of proteins, hormones, enzymes, receptors, and other cellular products that are overexpressed(produced in higher than normal amounts) by malignant cells. Tumor markers are usually normal cellular constituents that are pre...
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Magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) is a noninvasive way to take pictures of the body.Unlike x-rays and computed tomographic( CT) scans, which use radiation, MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves. The MRI scanner contains the magnet.
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Cardiac nuclear imaging is also called a "perfusion scan.” A radioactive tracer is delivered into the bloodstream. Then a camera scans the tracer in the blood as it flows through the heart muscle.
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New MRI machines and new techniques result in images that show prostate cancer in much greater detail, allowing biopsies to be targeted more precisely, and thus cancer staging can be more accurate as well.
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Detailed information on magnetic resonance imaging, including how the image is performed and what happens following the procedure
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test that lets your doctor see detailed pictures of the inside of your body. MRI combines the use of strong magnets and radio waves to form an MRI image.
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Studies have found that MRI tests used in addition to mammography detected more cancers in women at high risk for breast cancer. Women at average risk would not necessarily benefit from the additional testing.
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A Harvard Medical School physician answers your question about the safety of MRIs for those who have stents.
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When I had an MRI of my knee, I was told the test was dangerous for people who have metal devices in their bodies. Since then, I developed angina and my cardiologist put in a metal stent. If I need an MRI in the future, will I be able to get one?
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Persons with pacemakers cannot get an MRI because it conflicts with the pacemaker's function. Future pacemakers will likely be made MRI-safe, but this will probably take at least several more years.
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For women at high genetic risk, adding MRI screening to mammography may improve early detection of breast cancer.
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How safe is it for a baby who is 6 months old to have an MRI?
Claire McCarthy, M.D., is a senior medical editor for Harvard Health Publications. She is an instructor in pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, an attending physician at Children's Hospital of Boston, and co-director of the pediatrics department at Martha Eliot Health Center, a neighborhood health service of Children's Hospital. The author of two books, "Learning How the Heart Beats" and "Everyone's Children", Dr. McCarthy was a regular columnist for "Sesame Street Parents Magazine" from 1995 to 1998 and is currently a contributing editor for "Parenting Magazine".
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Is a regular MRI more accurate then an open MRI?
Diana Post, M.D., is an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and a member of the Department of Medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital.
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In some cases, chemical agents such as gadolinium can be injected to improve the contrast between healthy and diseased tissue.A single MRI exposure produces a two-dimensional image of a slice through the entire target area. A series of these image...
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Magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) is a unique and versatile medical imaging modality. Doctors can obtain highly refined images of the body''s interior using MRI.
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Magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) is one of the newest diagnostic medical imaging technologies that uses strong magnets and pulses of radio waves to manipulate the natural magnetic properties in the body to generate a visible image. In the field of ...
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Magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) is the newest, and perhaps most versatile, medical imaging technology available. Doctors can get highly refined images of the body''s interior without surgery, using MRI.
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Magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses radio waves, a magnetic field, and a computer to generate images of the anatomy.MRI is used to visualize the body to assist doctors in their efforts to diagnose certain di...
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Magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) is one of the newest, and perhaps most versatile, medical imaging technology available. Doctors can get highly refined images of the body''s interior without surgery using MRI.
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People with certain kinds of pacemakers or ICDs can safely undergo an MRI, as long as a series of safety precautions is carefully followed.
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Ultrasound involves the use of high-frequency sound waves to create images of organs and systems within the body.An ultrasound machine creates images that allow various organs in the body to be examined. The machine sends out high-frequency sound ...
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Ultrasonography is a diagnostic technique that involves directing high frequency sound waves at tissues in the body to generate images of anatomical structures. Ultrasonography is also called sonography, diagnostic sonography, and echocardiography...
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Detailed information on ultrasonograpy, also called sonography including information on how the procedure is performed
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Detailed information on ultrasound and the potential risks and benefits An ultrasound scan is a diagnostic technique which uses high-frequency sound
waves to create an image of the internal organs. A screening ultrasound is sometimes done during the course of a pregnancy to monitor normal fetal growth and verify the due date. Ultrasounds may be performed at various times throughout pregnancy for different reasons:
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A thyroid ultrasound, or sonogram, is a diagnostic imaging technique used to evaluate the structure of the thyroid gland. The thyroid is an endocrine gland, which means that it releases its secretions directly into the bloodstream or lymph.
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My Ob/Gyn said they found fluid in the baby's kidneys during my 20-week ultrasound, so I have to have a level 2 ultrasound done. What does this mean?
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Diagnostic medical sonography, or ultrasound, is a technique using high frequency sound to create images of specific areas of the body to diagnose various pathologies. The diagnostic medical sonographer performs examinations, records anatomic cond...
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Ultrasonography is the study of internal organs or blood vessels using high-frequency sound waves. The actual test is called an ultrasound scan or sonogram.
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Since diagnostic sonography utilizes a nonionizing form of energy, there are no known bioeffects. Thus, diagnostic sonography is applied to a large spectrum of clinical disorders, including obstetrical, gynecological, abdominal, urologic, pediatri...
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A computed tomography(CT) scan is an imaging method that uses x-rays to create cross-sectional pictures of the body.CAT scan; Computed axial tomography scan; Computed tomography scan.You will be asked to lie on a narrow table that slides into the ...
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Computed tomography (CT) is a test that combines x-rays and computer scans. The result is a detailed picture that can show problems with soft tissues (such as the lining of your sinuses), organs (such as your kidneys or lungs), and bones.
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Detailed information on ultrafast computed tomography scans, also called ultrafast CT scan or ultrafast CAT scan, including information on how the procedure is performed
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Detailed information on CT scan, including how the CT scan is performed and what happens after the procedure
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Detailed information on computed tomography scans, also called CT scan or CAT scan, including information on how the procedure is performed
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Detailed information on ultrafast computed tomography (CT) scan, including reasons for the procedure, risks of the procedure, what to expect, and discharge instructions
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Computed tomography scanning, also called CT scan, CAT scan, or computerized axial tomography, is a diagnostic tool that provides views of internal body structures using x rays. In the field of mental health, a CT scan may be used when a patient s...
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Computed tomography(CT) scans are completed with the use of a 360-degree x-ray beam and computer production of images. These scans allow for cross-sectional views of body organs and tissues.CT scans are used to image a wide variety of body structu...
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Computed tomography(CT), formerly referred to as computerized axial tomography(CAT), is a common diagnostic imaging procedure that uses x rays to generate images(slices) of the anatomy.Computed tomography(CT) is an x-ray imaging procedure used for...
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Computed tomography(CT) scanning is a valuable diagnostic tool that provides physicians with views of internal body structures. During a CT scan, multiple x rays are passed through the body, producing cross-sectional images, or"slices," on a catho...
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Computed tomography(also known as CT, CT scan, CAT, or computerized axial tomography) scans use x rays to produce precise cross-sectional images of anatomical structures.With the development of modern computers, the scans enhanced digital capabili...
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Is there an alternative to iodine as a contrast medium in a CT scan?
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What is the difference between a pelvic CT scan and an abdominal CT scan?
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A biopsy describes the procedure that is used to obtain a very small piece of the target tissue. For some tissues, like the lining of the cheek, cells can be obtained just by scrapping the tissue surface.
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Detailed information on biopsy, including the most common types of biopsy such as endoscopic biopsy, bone marrow biopsy, excisional biopsy, incisional biopsy, fine needle aspiration biopsy, punch biopsy, shave biopsy, and skin biopsy
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Biopsy is a diagnostic procedure in which a piece of tissue and/or cells are removed to be examined under a microscope by a pathologist.Biopsies are performed to determine the presence of cancer cells, establish tumor grading, and provide more inf...
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Detailed information on several of the different divisions of anatomical pathology, including biopsy, surgical pathology, cytology, and autopsy
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A biopsy is a small sample of tissue or fluid taken from the body. This sample can then be studied in a laboratory. Image-guided biopsy allows a sample to be taken from an abnormal mass without the need for surgery. This procedure is done by a specially trained doctor called an interventional radiologist.
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What type of biopsy will I have? Why do I need a biopsy? How long will it take?
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Detailed information on biopsy and the biopsy report For many health problems, a diagnosis is made by removing a sample of tissue for study in the pathology laboratory. The biopsy report describes the findings of a specimen.
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Most biopsies involve taking a small piece of skin or muscle under a local anesthetic. When the cells to be analyzed are accessible by needle, the biopsy specimen may be removed with a hollow aspiration needle, which is used to suck out the sample...
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Common tests that are used to evaluate liver function include:.Albumin Alpha-1 antitrypsin ALP ALT AST Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase(GGT) Prothrombin time.Please see individual tests for details on how each is performed.
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Liver function tests, or LFTs, include tests for bilirubin, a breakdown product of hemoglobin, and ammonia, a protein byproduct that is normally converted into urea by the liver before being excreted by the kidneys. LFTs also commonly include test...
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Detailed information on the most common liver function tests, including serum bilirubin test, serum albumin test, serum alkaline phosphatase test, serum aminotransferases, prothrombin time test, alanine transaminase test, aspartate transaminase test, gamm
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Liver function tests, or LFTs, include tests that are routinely measured in all clinical laboratories. LFTs include bilirubin, a compound formed by the catabolism of hemoglobin; ammonia, a product of protein catabolism that is normally converted i...
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Liver function tests, or LFTs, include tests that are routinely measured in all clinical laboratories. LFTs include bilirubin, a compound formed by the breakdown of hemoglobin; ammonia, a breakdown product of protein that is normally converted int...
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A positron emission tomography(PET) scan is an imaging test that uses a radioactive substance(called a tracer) to look for disease in the body.Unlike magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) and computed tomography(CT) scans, which reveal the structure of ...
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Positron emission tomography(PET) is a highly specialized imaging technique using short-lived radiolabeled substances to produce powerful images of the body''s biological function.Besides being used to investigate the metabolism of normal organs, P...
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Rather than showing the structure of a body part, PET images show the chemical function of an organ or tissue. PET can show changes in how an organ or tissue works. This can help your healthcare provider diagnose problems and develop a treatment plan for you.
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A heart positron emission tomography(PET) scan is an imaging test that uses a radioactive substance(called a tracer) to look for disease or poor blood flow in the heart.Magnetic resonance imaging( MRI) and computed tomography( CT) scans reveal the...
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Detailed information on positron emission tomography (PET), including information on how PET scans are performed
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A lung positron emission tomography(PET) scan is an imaging test that uses a radioactive substance(called a tracer) to look for disease in the lungs, especially lung cancer.Unlike magnetic resonance imaging( MRI) and computed tomography( CT) scans...
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Positron emission tomography(PET) is a non-invasive scanning technique that utilizes small amounts of radioactive positrons(positively charged particles) to visualize body function and metabolism.As of 2001, PET is the fastest growing nuclear medi...
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The positron emission tomography( PET) unit is a device used to produce images of the body that reflect biochemical changes taking place in the body. Among the body imaging technologies used in medicine, the PET unit is characterized by its use of...
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Finding cancer at its earliest stage can give the best chance of being able to cure it. Different tests are used to find cancers and to help find out if the cancer has spread. A positron-emission tomography (PET) scan is one type of test that can help find and stage cancers as well as monitor how well treatment is working.
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Positron emission tomography(PET) is a non-invasive scanning technique that utilizes small amounts of radioactive positrons(positively charged particles) to visualize body function and metabolism.PET is the fastest growing nuclear medicine tool in...
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Positron emission tomography(PET) is a noninvasive scanning technique that utilizes small amounts of radioactive positrons(positively charged particles) to visualize body function and metabolism.PET is the fastest growing nuclear medicine tool in ...
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Positron emission tomography(PET) is a scanning technique used in conjunction with small amounts of radiolabeled compounds to visualize brain anatomy and function.A PET scan showing brain activity while patient recognizes faces—left sides at...
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Positron emission tomography(PET) is a highly specialized imaging technique using short-lived radiolabeled substances to produce extremely high resolution images of the body''s biological function.Besides being used to investigate the metabolism of...
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Are the gamma rays of a PET scan dangerous?
Robert Shmerling, M.D., is associate physician and clinical chief of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and an associate professor in medicine at Harvard Medical School. He is an active teacher in the Internal Medicine Residency Program, serving as the Robinson Firm Chief. He is also a teacher in the Rheumatology Fellowship Program and has been a practicing rheumatologist for over 25 years.
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An arteriogram is an imaging test that uses x-rays and a special dye to see inside the arteries. It can be used to see arteries in the heart, brain, kidney, and many other parts of the body.
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Angiography is the x-ray(radiographic) study of the blood vessels. An angiogram uses a radiopaque substance, or contrast medium, to make the blood vessels visible under x ray.
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CTA creates images of arteries throughout the body. A contrast medium (x-ray dye) is injected to make the blood vessels stand out. Pictures are then taken with the CT scanner. The CT images are processed by a computer to make a three-dimensional picture.
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Angiography is a special type of x-ray that allows your coronary arteries to be viewed and recorded on film. Your doctor can see if the blood vessels to your heart are clogged.
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Angiography is the x-ray(radiographic) study of the blood vessels. An angiogram uses a radiopaque substance, or contrast medium, to make the blood vessels visible under x ray.
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Angiography is the x-ray(radiographic) study of the blood vessels. An angiogram uses a radiopaque substance, or contrast medium, to make the blood vessels visible under x ray.
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Angiography is the x-ray study of the blood vessels. An angiogram uses a radiopaque substance, or dye, to make the blood vessels visible under x ray.
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Angiography is the x-ray study of the blood vessels. An angiogram uses a radiopaque substance, or dye, to make the blood vessels visible under x ray.
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Talk to your doctor about the risks and complications of angioplasty. Peripheral angioplasty is a procedure that helps open blockages in peripheral arteries. These vessels carry blood to your lower body and legs.
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Women who suffer from chest pain but show clear arteries on an angiogram may have a different type of blocked artery, where plaque builds up evenly on the inner surface or bulges outward.
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Hepatic angiography is an x-ray study of the blood vessels that supply the liver. The procedure uses a catheter (thin, flexible tube) that is placed into a blood vessel through a small incision. A specially trained doctor called an interventional radiologist usually does the procedure.
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A chest x-ray is an x-ray of the chest, lungs, heart, large arteries, ribs, and diaphragm.Chest radiography; Serial chest x-ray; X-ray- chest.The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider''s office by an x-...
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A chest x ray is a procedure used to evaluate organs and structures within the chest for symptoms of disease. Chest x rays include views of the lungs, heart, small portions of the gastrointestinal tract, thyroid gland and the bones of the chest ar...
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Detailed information on chest x-rays, including reasons for the procedure X-rays are made by using low levels of external radiation to produce images of the body, the organs, and other internal structures for diagnostic purposes. X-rays pass through body structures onto specially treated plates (similar to camera film) and a "negative" type picture is made. The more solid a structure is, the whiter it appears on the film. For this reason, bones appear very white on an x-ray film, but less dense tissue such as muscle, blood, skin, and fat appears darker.
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A chest x ray is a procedure used to evaluate organs and structures within the chest for symptoms of disease. Chest x rays include views of the lungs, heart, small portions of the gastrointestinal tract, thyroid gland, and the bones of the chest a...
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A chest x ray is a procedure used to evaluate organs and structures within the chest for symptoms of disease. Chest x rays include views of the lungs, heart, small portions of the gastrointestinal tract, and the bones of the chest area.
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A complete blood count(CBC) test measures the following:.The number of red blood cells(RBCs) The number of white blood cells(WBCs) The total amount of hemoglobin in the blood The fraction of the blood composed of red blood cells( hematocrit) The s...
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One of the most commonly ordered clinical laboratory tests, a blood count, also called a complete blood count(CBC), is a basic evaluation of the cells(red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets) suspended in the liquid part of the blood(pla...
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A complete blood count(CBC) is a series of tests used to evaluate the composition and concentration of the cellular components of blood. It consists of the following tests: red blood cell(RBC) count, white blood cell(WBC) count, and platelet count...
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The clinical laboratory test that evaluates the three main cellular components of peripheral blood(red cells, white cells, and platelets) is called the"complete blood count"(CBC). It is used commonly to assess whether a patient is anemic(low red c...
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A complete blood count(CBC) is a series of tests used to evaluate the composition and concentration of the cellular components of blood. It consists of the following tests: red blood cell(RBC) count, white blood cell(WBC) count, and platelet count...
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Bilirubin is a product that results from the breakdown of hemoglobin. Total and direct bilirubin are usually measured to screen for or to monitor liver or gallbladder problems.Total bilirubin; Unconjugated bilirubin; Indirect bilirubin; Conjugated...
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The bilirubin test is a blood test to monitor the liver function of newborns. The rapid destruction of red blood cells after birth produces more bilirubin than the infant''s liver can handle, causing some jaundice in about 99% of newborns.
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