What does it mean to be referred to an oncologist?
An oncologist is a doctor with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Some oncologists specialise in a particular type of cancer treatment. Part of a multidisciplinary team, the oncologist also supports the patient through collaboration and coordination of other specialists.
Does an oncologist diagnose cancer?
Oncologists are doctors who diagnose and treat cancer. They often act as the main healthcare provider for someone with cancer—designing treatment plans, offering supportive care, and sometimes coordinating treatment with other specialists.
When do you need to see an oncologist?
You’ll probably see a medical oncologist right after you’ve been diagnosed with cancer. This is usually one of the first steps of your cancer journey. They can help you understand your diagnosis as well as the timeline of your cancer treatment.
Why would I be referred to a surgical oncologist?
You might see a surgical oncologist if you have a growth or tumor. If your primary care doctor suspects you might have cancer, they can refer you to a surgical oncologist for a biopsy. If you have already been diagnosed with cancer, a doctor may refer you to a surgical oncologist as part of your cancer treatment.
What is oncology test?
Oncologists must first diagnose a cancer, which is usually carried out via biopsy, endoscopy, X-ray, CT scanning, MRI, PET scanning, ultrasound or other radiological methods. Nuclear medicine can also be used to diagnose cancer, as can blood tests or tumor markers.
What questions should I ask my oncologist on my first visit?
Here’s what to ask during your first cancer-related visit with your oncologist:
- What is the purpose of this appointment?
- Which type of cancer do I have?
- What are the standard treatments for my condition?
- Why do you recommend this particular treatment?
- What are potential hazards and side effects?
What are the 7 warnings signs of cancer?
Warning signs of possible cancer include the following:
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Fatigue.
- Night sweats.
- Loss of appetite.
- New, persistent pain.
- Recurrent nausea or vomiting.
- Blood in urine.
- Blood in stool (either visible or detectable by special tests)
How does an oncologist diagnose cancer?
Your oncologist might do a physical examination to find abnormalities that could indicate cancer. They might also do blood and urine tests or imaging scans like MRIs, ultrasounds, and CT scans. They might do one or more biopsies to check for cancer cells in tissues.
Does cancer show up in bloodwork?
With the exception of blood cancers, blood tests generally can’t absolutely tell whether you have cancer or some other noncancerous condition, but they can give your doctor clues about what’s going on inside your body.
What can I expect from a gynecologic oncologist?
The doctor will likely ask you about symptoms you’ve had. From there, they usually examine your reproductive organs. A gynecologic oncologist may order follow-up tests or imaging to confirm a diagnosis.
What does oncologist look for in blood test?
The CBC or complete blood count and common chemistry tests are used to monitor for side effects of cancer treatment. The CBC or complete blood count and common chemistry tests are used to monitor for side effects of cancer treatment.
What do oncology nurses do?
Oncology nurses coordinate cancer care
A person’s cancer treatment will weave through many phases, and he or she may see several different professionals from different medical specializations. Often, oncology nurses are the ones who provide consistent information and guidance across the treatment plan.