Tests For Stomach Cancer | Diagnosis Of Stomach Cancer
Diagnosing stomach cancer is a multi-step approach. Doctors often do more than one test to diagnose the condition. These may include; [5]
Upper endoscopy
Upper endoscopy or endoscopic gastro-duodenoscopy, is a technique used for the detection of stomach cancer. Endoscopic procedure can be used for people who are at higher risk of stomach cancer. An endoscope consists of flexible, lighted tube with a camera on one end, which sent to the stomach via the mouth. In order for the patient to not feel any pain during the procedure, the patient is anesthetized. The doctor then inspects the gut carefully. Sometimes samples are also collected during this procedure for lab test. The cancerous cells show similar appearances as ulcers and the tumor is slightly raised and lumpy beside the normal stomach surface. This procedure is very safe for the identification of cancer, however the side effects may include:
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Throat pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting