What Exams and Tests Diagnose Pancreatic Cancer?
When the patients present with complaints which align with the presentation of pancreatic cancer, the doctor may need to investigate further with the help of some tests. These tests can be minimally invasive like blood tests, or may be surgically invasive. However, these tests are crucial to confirm any suspected case.
Personal history and physical exam
Before any laboratory tests, the doctor first assesses the gross picture of the patient. The doctor may like to look into the family history of the patient. Physical examination is another level of investigation. Pancreatic disease may cause associated hypertrophy of liver and spleen. These hypertrophied organs can be appreciated by the doctor on palpation. Jaundice is another appreciable feature. Yellowing of the eyes and skin is easily appreciated by the doctor.