Cancer An evaluation of cancer begins with a history and physical examination. Together, they help a doctor assess a person's risk of cancer and decide which tests are necessary. In general, as part of a routine physical examination, a cancer-related checkup should be performed to check for cancers of the thyroid, testes, mouth, ovaries, skin, and lymph nodes.
Screening tests try to identify cancer before it causes symptoms.
If a screening test gives a positive result, further tests are needed to be certain of the diagnosis. A diagnosis of cancer must always be made with absolute certainty, a process that usually requires a biopsy. Determining the specific type of cancer is also absolutely essential. When cancer is found, staging tests help determine its exact location and whether it has spread. Staging also helps doctors plan appropriate treatment and determine prognosis.