Coagulation panel: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview

A Coagulation panel is a group of blood tests that assess how well blood clots. It helps clinicians understand bleeding risk and clotting tendency. It is commonly used in cancer care before procedures and during certain treatments. It can also help evaluate symptoms like unusual bruising, bleeding, or suspected blood clots.

Tumor markers panel: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview

A Tumor markers panel is a group of laboratory tests that measure specific substances linked to certain cancers. These substances (called “tumor markers”) are usually measured in blood, and sometimes in urine or other body fluids. Clinicians use Tumor markers panel results alongside imaging, physical exams, and biopsy findings. It is commonly used in oncology to monitor treatment response and to support follow-up after cancer therapy.

Renal function panel: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview

A Renal function panel is a group of laboratory blood tests that helps assess how well the kidneys are working. It looks at kidney filtration and related body chemistry, such as electrolytes and acid–base balance. It is commonly used in oncology to support safe treatment planning and monitoring during therapy. It is also used in general medicine for evaluating dehydration, chronic kidney disease, and medication effects.

LFTs: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview

LFTs are blood tests that help assess how the liver is functioning. They are commonly used in oncology to establish a baseline before treatment and to monitor safety during therapy. LFTs can also support evaluation when cancer may involve the liver or when symptoms suggest liver or bile-duct problems. The term “LFTs” usually refers to a panel of related lab values interpreted together, not a single test.

CMP: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview

CMP most commonly refers to a **Comprehensive Metabolic Panel**, a group of blood tests run together. It provides a broad snapshot of **kidney function, liver function, electrolytes, blood sugar, and protein status**. In cancer care, CMP is commonly used **before, during, and after treatment** to support safe planning and monitoring. It is ordered in clinics, infusion centers, emergency settings, and during hospital care.

CBC: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview

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.

CT angiography: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview

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: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview

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: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview

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.