Guide To Pancreatic Cancer Tests

Endoscopic Ultrasound

Endoscopic ultrasound is a type of diagnostic imaging test that utilizes a small device that sends sound waves through the body to create an image of the organs by absorbing the deflection of sound waves off internal organs. Transabdominal ultrasound operates with a wand used on the surface of an individual's skin, where an endoscopic ultrasound uses a smaller tube with a light on it and passes it down the individual's esophagus, through their stomach, and into their small intestine. The ultrasound tube is manipulated around in this region to take pictures of the shape and condition of the pancreas. Endoscopic ultrasound is performed by a gastroenterologist while the patient is under sedation. The gastroenterologist may decide to perform a biopsy of pancreatic tissue and other nearby tissue during the endoscopic ultrasound for better diagnostic clarity. Endoscopic ultrasound is helpful in cases where CT scans and other imaging methods are unable to provide a clear visual of the pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic Protocol CT Scan

A pancreatic protocol CT scan is a combination of a common diagnostic imaging procedure and a specialized contrast medium administration technique to produce a well-defined representation of a patient's pancreas and surrounding structures. A computed tomography (CT) scan is a machine that takes x-ray images of the interior structures of a patient's body and then utilizes an advanced computer to layer and compound such images into a high-quality three-dimensional representation that can better reveal any odd growths or other abnormalities in the organs. A contrast medium or specialized dye is injected into the patient's circulation to provide better clarity of where the tumor is located relative to the neighboring blood vessels and other organs. When using the pancreatic protocol, the CT scans are taken at specific times during and after the intravenous administration of the contrast medium to make it easier to see abnormalities in the structure, function, and blood flow in the pancreatic structures of pancreatic cancer patients.