Early diagnosis is crucial for the successful treatment of cancer. Our highly specialised radiographers and consultant radiologists use a range of equipment to help them make fast and accurate diagnoses. We also provide a full range of blood and tissue sample analyses to aid in diagnosis.
Early diagnosis is crucial for successful cancer treatment.
Spire offers fast access and quick results.
CT scanning
CT scanning is very useful in the detection, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. It can detect tumours the size of a grain of rice, which increases the chances of early treatment and a successful outcome. Our CT (computerised tomography) scanners uses X-rays combined with computer technology to create detailed images of bones, soft tissue and the brain. Sometimes a dye is used to make tissue show up more clearly.
MRI scanning
MRI scanning helps to diagnose and monitor many different types of cancer without using x-rays. It is particularly good for tumours in the brain, spine and bone. Our MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scanners produces two and three-dimensional pictures. They display soft tissue images very clearly and a single scan can produce many pictures from different angles.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound scans use high frequency sound waves to produce live images of organs, tissues and blood flow so we can see what is happening inside your body. They are used to help diagnose cancer of the liver, pancreas, kidneys, ovaries, prostate and breast.
X-ray and mammography
Standard X-rays are used to detect signs of cancer throughout the skeleton while chest X-rays enable the lungs and heart to be examined. Mammography is a low dose X-ray used to examine the breasts. It can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or doctor can feel them. This is important as successful treatment of breast cancer generally depends on early diagnosis.
Blood and sample tests
A wide range of blood and sample tests are available to assist in the diagnosis of cancer. Common cancer blood tests include PSA and PCA3 testing for prostate cancer, CEA for lung, colon, bowel, testicular and pancreatic cancer, CA125 testing for ovarian cancer, and also the new OvPlex™ test for ovarian cancer. Urine analysis can be conducted to detect bladder and kidney cancer. Histological (microscopic) analysis of a biopsy or small tissue sample is also common for the detection of cancer.
These tests are conducted by taking a small sample of blood, urine or tissue for analysis in Spire’s laboratories.