Modern Methods of Cancer Diagnosis: From CT to PET-CT

The diagnosis of oncological diseases is the first and one of the most important steps on the path to recovery. An accurate and timely diagnosis allows doctors to choose the most effective treatment plan and significantly increase the patient's chances of a successful outcome. Today, medicine has a whole range of advanced technologies that help detect tumors even in their early stages. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the most common and effective methods of modern cancer diagnostics.

Computed Tomography (CT)

Computed Tomography (CT) is a non-invasive imaging method that uses X-rays to create detailed images of internal organs and tissues. A CT scan allows doctors to assess the size, shape, and location of a new growth, as well as to detect metastases in adjacent lymph nodes and organs. The procedure is fast and painless, and its results help doctors plan treatment, particularly when preparing for chemotherapy for solid tumors.

• How it works: The patient lies on a table that moves slowly through a ring-shaped machine. During this time, an X-ray tube takes numerous images from different angles. A computer processes the information to create a three-dimensional model of the scanned body area.
• When is it prescribed? CT is widely used for diagnosing tumors of the lungs, liver, and gastrointestinal tract, and for assessing the spread of the disease. For example, in oncourology, CT is a key method for detecting tumors of the kidneys and bladder.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Unlike CT, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) does not use ionizing radiation. It works based on a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency pulses, which produce high-quality images of soft tissues. MRI is especially effective for examining the brain, spinal cord, muscles, joints, and pelvic organs.

• Advantages: MRI can distinguish tumor tissues from healthy ones with high accuracy, which is critically important for diagnosing diseases in neurology and for finding drugs for multiple sclerosis.
• Disadvantages: The procedure is longer, and there are limitations for patients with metal implants or pacemakers.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET-CT)

PET-CT is a hybrid method that combines the benefits of PET and CT. This technology not only provides a detailed anatomical picture, as with CT, but also assesses the metabolic activity of cells, which is the primary function of PET.

• How it works: A radiopharmaceutical (e.g., fluorodeoxyglucose, or FDG) is injected into the patient. This substance accumulates in cells with high metabolic activity, which is characteristic of cancer cells. The machine captures the radiation from this substance, allowing it to visualize the location of tumors and even small metastases that may not yet be visible on a CT or MRI.
• Advantages: PET-CT is the gold standard for detecting recurrences, evaluating the effectiveness of treatment (including after using supportive drugs), and planning radiation therapy. This method helps differentiate between benign and malignant growths.

Other Diagnostic Methods

In addition to imaging methods, other studies also play a crucial role.

• Laboratory diagnostics: Blood tests, particularly for tumor markers, help identify an increased risk or monitor the dynamics of treatment.
• Biopsy: This method involves taking a tissue sample from the tumor for histological examination. Only a biopsy can provide a definitive conclusion about the malignancy of a growth.
• Endoscopic examinations: Used to visualize internal organs (e.g., gastroscopy, colonoscopy).