Explain briefly any three methods used to diagnose cancer.

Explanation

Detection and Diagnosis of Cancer. It depends upon histological features of malignant structure. (i) Bone marrow biopsy and abnormal count of WBCs in leukemia. (ii) Biopsy of tissue, direct or through endoscopy. Also endoscopic observation. Pap test (cytological staining) is used for detecting cancer of cervix and other parts of genital tract. (iii) Techniques such as radiography (use oif X-rays), CT Scan (computed tomography) MRI Scan (magnetic resonance imaging) are very useful to detect cancers of the internal organs. In CT Scan X-rays are used to generate a three dimensional image of internal organs. In MRI strong magnetic fields and non-ionizing radiations are used to detect phathological and physiological changes in the living tissue. Antibodies against cancer specific antigens are also used for detection of certain cancers. Techniques of molecular biology can be applied to detect genes in individuals. Mammography is radiographic examination of breasts for possible cancer. (iv) Monoclonal antibodies coupled to appropriate radioisotopes can detect cancer specific antigens and hence cancer.