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What medical tests are involved in cancer screening?

Jul 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, cancer screening items include cervical cytology and human papillomavirus testing, imaging examinations, endoscopic examinations, serological tumor marker testing, and pathological biopsy. The recommended screening items and frequencies may vary for different age groups and genders. An individualized screening plan should be developed based on personal factors such as family history and lifestyle habits.

Generally, cancer screening includes examinations such as cervical cytology combined with human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, imaging examinations, endoscopic examinations, serological tumor marker testing, and pathological biopsy. If any discomfort symptoms arise, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation at a hospital and follow standardized treatment guided by a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Cervical Cytology and Human Papillomavirus Testing

Cervical cytology involves examining exfoliated cells from cervical secretions to screen for cervical cancer cells or abnormal cells. HPV testing focuses on high-risk HPV types closely associated with cervical cancer development. Combining both methods improves the accuracy of cervical cancer screening, helping women prevent cervical cancer effectively.

2. Imaging Examinations

Imaging examinations include CT scans, ultrasound scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). CT scans are effective for early lung cancer screening, especially recommended annually using low-dose spiral CT for individuals over 40 years old. Ultrasound examinations, including abdominal color Doppler ultrasound, urological ultrasound, breast ultrasound, and thyroid ultrasound, can help determine the presence of tumors in the digestive system, urinary system, breast, thyroid, and other areas. MRI can be used for tumor screening of the brain or spinal cord.

3. Endoscopic Examinations

Direct observation of mucosal conditions in the digestive and respiratory tracts is an important method for detecting early-stage cancers. Gastroscopy is used to examine gastric lesions such as gastric cancer and peptic ulcers. Colonoscopy evaluates the intestinal tract to help detect colorectal cancer. Bronchoscopy examines the bronchi and lungs, assisting in diagnosing lung cancer. These examinations allow direct visualization of lesion morphology and tissue sampling for pathological biopsy.

4. Serological Tumor Marker Testing

Serological tumor marker testing assesses tumor occurrence and progression by measuring specific tumor marker levels in the blood. Common tumor markers include carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA), prostate-specific antigen (PSA), carbohydrate antigen (CA), among others. Elevation of one or more of these indicators warrants attention and further imaging examinations are recommended.

5. Pathological Biopsy

When suspicious lesions are identified via imaging or endoscopic examinations, tissue samples are obtained through biopsy, endoscopic sampling, or surgical excision for microscopic evaluation to confirm the presence of cancer cells. Pathological biopsy serves as the "gold standard" for cancer diagnosis, providing definitive information on cancer type, stage, and molecular characteristics, which are crucial for subsequent treatment planning.

Different age groups and genders may require different screening tests and frequencies. Personalized screening plans should be developed based on individual factors such as family history and lifestyle. Before undergoing cancer screening, it is advisable to consult with a professional physician or medical institution to determine suitable screening tests and strategies tailored to your needs.

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