Diagnosis
Expert Diagnosis is Key!
Comprehensive evaluation with accurate diagnosis is the foundation for achieving successful outcomes. That’s why it’s important to seek care from a center that provides academic level care from a multidisciplinary, specialized team of hepatobiliary and pancreatic experts experienced in the accurate diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumors, as well as other complex gastrointestinal 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 hepatobiliary and pancreatic 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 neuroendocrine tumors and other disorders. Some of the progressive imaging studies that may be utilized include:
- Tumor Markers are used to determine whether certain substances are being released into the blood. Tumor markers are often obtained to assess the probability of a cancer in a patient who has a lesion. While high tumor markers may indicate cancer, they are not definitive since non-cancerous conditions of the pancreas and liver can falsely elevate these tumor markers.
- Octreotide Scanning: The octreotide scan is useful to localize a NET and for following patients after the surgery whose tumors were positive on octreotide scanning for detecting early recurrences.
- Computed Tomography (CT) utilizes state-of-the-art x-rays to help determine the extent of the tumor and whether it involves surrounding organs.
- Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) uses an ultrasound device placed within the digestive tract, which can help to better distinguish between neuroendocrine tumors and adenocarcinoma. The physician may also collect a sample of cells (biopsy) to aid in a definitive diagnosis.
- 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 proper diagnosis and staging of neuroendocrine tumors is critical to developing a successful treatment plan. 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.
Innovative Treatment for Neuroendocrine Tumors
When it comes to neuroendocrine tumors and other gastrointestinal diseases, Hoag provides a full array of progressive treatment options. As a recognized leader and high-volume provider of innovative gastrointestinal care, Hoag’s multidisciplinary team of digestive disease experts performs some of the most advanced gastrointestinal procedures available in the nation with clinical outcomes that rival national figures.
Expert Care You Can Trust!
Hoag continues to lead the way in complex GI care, providing access to a highly specialized surgical team that works collaboratively with Hoag-affiliated thoracic surgeons, gastroenterologists and medical oncology specialists to provide academic-level care. Hoag’s commitment 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 gastroesophageal expert, call us at: 888-566-9712.