Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Esophageal cancer laboratory findings
Introduction
Overview
Overview
There are no diagnostic lab findings since diagnosis is based mainly on biopsy and esophageal endoscopy. However, routine tests are done to rule out anemia and metastases to the liver.
Laboratory Findings
Laboratory Findings
- There are no diagnostic lab findings associated with esophageal cancer.
- However the following tests are often performed:
- Complete blood count (CBC): To detect anemia caused by chronic esophageal bleeding.
- Liver enzymes: To check liver function and to ensure cancer has not spread to the liver.
- Metabolic panel: To determine nutritional status[1]
References
References
- ↑ Wang KK, Sampliner RE (2008). “Updated guidelines 2008 for the diagnosis, surveillance and therapy of Barrett’s esophagus”. Am. J. Gastroenterol. 103 (3): 788–97. doi:10.1111/j.1572-0241.2008.01835.x. PMID 18341497.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Hadeel Maksoud M.D.[2]