Imaging is the creation of pictures of areas inside the body that could not otherwise be seen. There are many different technologies used to create images. Images are created by the way different tissues react to x-rays, radioactive particles, sound waves or magnetic fields. Sometimes a contrast medium is used to create a better picture.
Common imaging tests
Why an imaging test is done
Imaging is done to:
- check the structure and function of body tissues and organs
- detect abnormalities caused by various diseases, including cancer
- help make a diagnosis of cancer
- guide doctors to an abnormality or suspected tumour so they can take a biopsy sample or remove the abnormal tissue
- determine the stage (how far cancer has spread and if it is present in nearby organs or tissues)
- help plan cancer treatment
- find out if cancer treatment is working (if the tumour has increased or decreased in size)
- check if cancer has come back (has recurred) after treatment
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How an imaging test is done
Each test uses a different technology and imaging machine. Depending on the type of imaging test, it may be done in a doctor’s office, clinic, imaging centre or hospital. Some tests require special preparation.
- Sometimes a contrast medium is given before the test:
- orally
- by enema (a procedure used to inject a liquid into the colon and rectum through the anus)
- intravenously (injected into a vein in the hand or arm)
The images are captured on x-ray film or a computer. They are read and interpreted by a doctor who specializes in imaging techniques (a radiologist) or a nuclear medicine doctor.
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What the results mean
An imaging test can show:
- a change in the structure of an organ that could be due to injury or disease
- a mass, lesion (an area of abnormal tissue) or area of increased activity that could be a tumour or something caused by another disease
- the spread of cancer to other organs
- a decrease or increase in the size of a tumour (depending on how well treatment is working)
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What happens if a change or abnormality is found
The doctor will decide whether further tests, procedures, follow-up care or additional treatment are needed.
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