Diagnostic Services

How a gynecologic cancer is diagnosed depends on what type of cancer is suspected. Pelvic exams, Pap tests, colposcopy exams, biopsies, and possibly even diagnostic surgery are all methods of diagnosing gynecologic cancer.

At the Bennett Cancer Center, patients have access to the most advanced diagnostic tools available:

Pelvic Exam: A pelvic exam is an exam of the vagina, cervix and uterus.

Pap test: A Pap test is a screening test to collect and microscopically examine cells taken from the cervix, the lower, narrow part of the uterus (womb) located between the bladder and the rectum.because it may detect abnormalities that can lead to invasive cancer.

Colposcopy exams: A colposcopy is an exam that allows the doctor to examine the cervix more closely. The doctor is aided by the use of a colposcope, a lighted instrument that magnifies the cervix.

Endometrial tissue sample: Endometrial biopsy is a procedure in which a tissue sample is taken from the lining of the uterus (endometrium), and is checked under a microscope for any abnormal cells or signs of cancer. This procedure is performed without anesthesia in a physician's office and takes less than 5 minutes.

Ultrasound: A pelvic or transvaginal ultrasound gives your doctor a view of your pelvic organs, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and the surrounding areas, using high-frequency sound waves that produce images of the body. These images allow your physician to check for abnormalities that indicate disease.

Computed Tomography (CT) scan: CT imaging combines special x-ray equipment with sophisticated computers to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body. These cross-sectional images of the area being studied can then be examined on a computer monitor or printed. CT imaging is one of the best and fastest tools for studying the chest, abdomen and pelvis because it provides detailed, cross-sectional views of all types of tissue.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: MRI is a noninvasive way for your doctor to examine your organs, tissues and skeletal system. It produces high-resolution images that help diagnose a variety of problems and may be used to detect tumors or abnormalities in your ovaries.

Positron emission tomography (PET) scan: A PET scan is an effective way for your doctor to examine the chemical activity in certain parts of your body, which may help detect abnormalities in those areas. PET scans may be useful in determining the extent of spread of certain cancers, assessing how the cancer responds to treatment, and determining if the cancer has recurred.