How will I know I have cancer of unknown primary?
You won’t know if you have cancer of unknown primary until your doctor has yarned with you, completed a physical examination and done some tests
The tests might include:
- a blood test or tests of your wee or poo
- imaging tests like a chest x-ray, ultrasound or a CT scan to see what your insides look like. Women may also need a mammogram or pelvic ultrasound to look at different parts of the body.
- a biopsy, where a tiny bit of tissue is taken from a lump. This is then taken to a lab and the doctors use a microscope to look at it.
Most people with cancer need a lot of tests. People with cancer of unknown primary may need more tests than usual. This can take more time and effort, but it is important for the doctors to do these tests to plan the correct treatment.
Having these tests does not mean you will have cancer, but it is important to check.