Diagnosis

Expert Diagnosis is Key!

Comprehensive evaluation with accurate diagnosis is the foundation for achieving highly successful outcomes. That’s why it’s important to seek care from a center that provides a multidisciplinary, specialized team of hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeons experienced in the accurate diagnosis of liver cancer, as well as other complex digestive diseases.

Beginning with a thorough evaluation that includes a comprehensive physical exam, personal medical history review and state-of-the-art diagnostic workup, Hoag’s multidisciplinary team of board-certified, fellowship trained gastrointestinal experts carefully evaluate and pinpoint the nature of the cancer, so the most appropriate personalized treatment options can be employed.

Hoag’s state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies provide our team with the latest modalities in the accurate diagnosis of liver cancer and other disorders. Some of the progressive imaging studies that may be utilized include:

• Blood tests are used to determine whether certain substances are being released into the blood by organs, tissues or tumor cells, as well as to check liver function.
• Ultrasound utilizes sound waves to examine the liver, spleen and other organs in order to determine any masses that may exist.
• Computed Tomography (CT) utilizes state-of-the-art x-rays to help determine the extent of the cancer and whether it encompasses the surrounding organs.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a test that uses magnetic waves to create detailed pictures of structures inside the body.
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is used to identify malignant cells even before an actual lesion (lump) can be detected in a physical exam, or on a CT or MRI scan.
• Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to examine internal organs by direct visualization. During the procedure, the surgeon can inspect the abdominal organs and insert other instruments to take tissue samples for a biopsy.
• Biopsy is performed to definitively diagnose liver cancer, and may involve other methods outside of laparoscopic biopsy.

It’s important to note that liver cancer is often difficult to diagnose because:

• Early liver disease often shows no symptoms.
• Symptoms often mimic those of other gastrointestinal conditions.

That’s why it’s so important to seek proper evaluation and treatment from a healthcare expert experienced in the most advanced hepatobiliary and pancreatic care.

Expert Care You Can Trust!

Hoag Family Cancer Institute, in close collaboration with physician specialists and USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, continue to lead the way in complex hepatobiliary cancer care, providing access to a multidisciplinary team of experts, including a highly specialized surgical team that provide academic-level care. Hoag’s committed to accurate diagnosis, combined with progressive therapeutic options enables Hoag patients to achieve some of the highest clinical outcomes in the nation.

To schedule a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, or a second-opinion consultation with a Hoag expert, call us at 949-764-5350.