Cancer tests
Information about the standard tests used to diagnose and stage cancer
Tests are used:
- To diagnose cancer.
- To find out more about your cancer – for example, how big it is, if it has spread or if it’s likely to grow quickly. This is called staging cancer.
- To see how a cancer might respond to particular treatments. For example, targeted therapies.
- To check your general health, for example, before surgery.
- To see how well you are responding to treatment.
Which tests for which cancer?
The type of tests you will have depend on the type of cancer. Read about a cancer type to see which tests are used to diagnose it or determine its stage.
Waiting on results
Waiting for the results of cancer tests can make you feel very anxious. If you are finding it hard to cope, you can talk to one of our cancer nurses. Call our Support Line on 1800 200 700 or drop into a Daffodil Centre.
It may help you to cope if you know how long you will have to wait and how you’ll get the results. Ask your doctor or nurse:
- When do they expect the results?
- How will you find out your results? For example, will they go to your GP? Do you need to phone for the results? Will you have another appointment at the hospital?
Cancer tests
Getting test results
Siobhán Hayes shares her experiences and offers advice on understanding cancer test results.
Get help and support
Telephone Interpreting Service
Our Telephone Interpreting Service helps you to speak to our Cancer Nurses in your own language.
Learn more Mon-Fri
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Free support pack
Receive our free cancer support pack. You will find a number of items ranging from cancer information booklets to services guides to items to help you navigate the experience.
