If you were recently diagnosed with cancer, doctor visits are going to become a pretty regular part of your life. And though it may not seem like it, that is a good thing. This means that your progress is being tracked and that your doctor is doing everything within his/her power to cure your cancer.
When describing your progress, your doctor may use one of the below terms:
- Stable. Your cancer or tumor has stayed the same — not grown or shrunk.
- Partial remission. Your tumor has shrunk by at least 50%.
- Complete remission. Your cancer has become so small that it can’t be measured by any tests. However, this doesn’t always mean you’re cured. Sometimes very small tumors can be present but difficult to find because they’re hiding behind an organ or other part of the body.
Testing Your Progress
With most illnesses, people can tell whether or not they’re getting better based on how they feel. Unfortunately, that’s often not the case with cancer. Because treatment can be aggressive, it’s not uncommon for people to feel worse as they get better.
Blood Tests
Some tumors emit enzymes and/or proteins as they grow. A blood test can sometimes reveal if a tumor has grown based on these enzyme and protein levels.
Urine Sample
Similar to a blood test, urine samples also contain tumor markers (enzymes and proteins emitted by a growing tumor).
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
CT Scans help to identify and locate tumors and blood clots, as well as diagnose those with cancer. They can also help track how successful a patient's treatments have been.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
An MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to make detailed pictures of the inside of a person’s body. Similar to CT Scans, they can be used to diagnose a patient or review their treatment progress.
Beverly Oncology & Imaging offers state-of-the-art medical technology with greater convenience than hospitals can offer. We are leaders in our field, using cutting-edge technology like Rotating Gamma Technology™,External Beam therapy, and brachytherapy. Contact us today to discuss treatment options or to make an appointment.