A CBC is a “complete blood count,” a common blood test that measures major blood cell types. It helps clinicians understand oxygen-carrying capacity, infection/inflammation signals, and bleeding risk. CBC is used in general medicine and is especially frequent in oncology before, during, and after treatment. Results are interpreted alongside symptoms, exam findings, and other tests.
A DEXA scan is a medical imaging test that measures bone density. It uses two low-dose X-ray energy levels to estimate how much mineral is in bone. It is commonly used to assess osteoporosis risk and monitor bone health over time. In cancer care, it is often used to evaluate treatment-related bone loss and fracture risk.
CT angiography is a CT scan that creates detailed pictures of blood vessels. It usually involves injecting contrast dye into a vein to make vessels easier to see. It is commonly used in emergency care, cardiology, vascular medicine, and oncology imaging. In cancer care, it helps clinicians understand how tumors relate to nearby arteries and veins.
Breast MRI is an imaging test that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed pictures of breast tissue. It is commonly used in cancer care to evaluate possible breast cancer and to assess the extent of known disease. It is often performed in outpatient radiology centers and hospital imaging departments. Many Breast MRI exams use an intravenous contrast agent to highlight areas with abnormal blood flow.
Mammography is a medical imaging test that uses low-dose X-rays to create pictures of breast tissue. It is commonly used to look for breast cancer early and to evaluate breast symptoms. Mammography can be performed as routine screening or as targeted imaging when there is a specific concern. It is typically offered in outpatient imaging centers, hospitals, and breast clinics.
Ultrasound is a medical imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of structures inside the body. It is commonly used to look at organs, blood flow, and soft tissues in real time. In cancer care, Ultrasound often helps evaluate symptoms, guide biopsies, and support procedures such as fluid drainage. It is used in outpatient clinics, hospitals, and sometimes at the bedside.
SPECT is a nuclear medicine imaging test that shows how organs and tissues are functioning. It stands for single photon emission computed tomography. It uses a small amount of radioactive tracer and a special camera to create three-dimensional images. It is commonly used in hospitals and imaging centers to evaluate cancer-related findings and treatment effects.
A Bone scan is an imaging test that shows areas of increased or decreased activity in the bones. It is most often performed in a nuclear medicine or radiology department. In cancer care, it is commonly used to look for bone involvement such as metastases (spread to bone). It can also be used for some non-cancer bone problems, depending on the clinical question.
Whole-body MRI is an MRI scan designed to image most of the body in a single session. It uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed pictures of internal tissues. In oncology, it is commonly used to look for cancer spread and to assess bone marrow and soft tissues. It can be performed with or without IV contrast depending on the clinical question.
Brain MRI is an imaging test that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the brain. It does not use ionizing radiation like CT scans or X-rays. In cancer care, it is commonly used to evaluate brain tumors, brain metastases, and neurologic symptoms. It is also used to plan and monitor treatments such as surgery and radiation therapy.