What happens at your first oncologist appointment?

During your first oncology appointment, your oncologist will ask about your health history, do a physical exam, and discuss the type of cancer you have and your treatment options. You'll work together to identify your goals for treatment and address your questions and concerns.

What can I expect from my first visit to an oncologist?

At the first appointment, the oncologist will talk about treatment options. The doctor will explain which ones are available, how effective they are and what the side effects may be. Then the oncologist will recommend a course and talk about when the treatments should take place.

How long does a first oncology appointment take?

Plan to spend two to three hours with us at your first appointment. It will be comprehensive and may include: A physical exam performed by your physician. Additional testing to help us outline your treatment plan.

How do I prepare for my first oncology appointment?

Does seeing an oncologist mean I have cancer?

No, seeing an oncologist doesn't mean you have cancer. You're seeing an oncologist because you have symptoms that might be cancer. Your visit to an oncologist is an opportunity for you to talk to a specialist about your symptoms. Your oncologist might order tests to learn more about your symptoms.

Preparing for Your First Appointment with Your Oncologist: Dr. Michael Anderson

What tests will an oncologist do?

Imaging tests used in diagnosing cancer may include a computerized tomography (CT) scan, bone scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET) scan, ultrasound and X-ray, among others. Biopsy. During a biopsy, your doctor collects a sample of cells for testing in the laboratory.

What does oncologist look for in blood test?

Samples taken for cancer blood tests are tested in a lab for signs of cancer. When viewed under a microscope, the samples may show the actual cancer cells. Other blood tests might find proteins or other substances made by the cancer. Blood tests can also tell your provider how well your organs are working.

Does an oncologist do a physical exam?

The oncologist is still likely to conduct a physical exam even if the primary care doctor performed one. Some additional tests may also be carried out. During the appointment, the patient may meet other cancer care team members.

What happens at an oncology appointment?

The appointment helps your cancer doctor or nurse notice any possible problems early. They may examine you and do some simple tests, such as taking a blood sample. They will usually ask questions about your recovery and any side effects or symptoms you have. It is very important to go to your appointments.

What are the best questions to ask an oncologist?

How soon do you start chemo after meeting with oncologist?

The treatment will usually begin that same week. In some cases, it could happen on the same day as the consultation. The patient may have this care locally or at a hospital facility. The oncologist will work with the patient's team.

How long does it take to test if a tumor is cancerous?

The results, called a pathology report, may be ready as soon as 2 or it may take as long as 10 days. How long it takes to get your biopsy results depends on how many tests are needed on the sample. Based on these tests, the laboratory processing your sample can learn if cancer is present and, if so, what type it is.

What is a typical day for an oncologist?

Common duties for oncologists include: Examining patients for signs of cancer and discussing symptoms with them. Ordering medical tests like blood tests and biopsies and analyzing their results. Explaining cancer and its treatment options with patients and developing personalized cancer treatment plans.

What symptoms are common in oncology patients?

Which of the following are common symptoms in oncology patients?

How do oncologists decide treatment?

Treatment options are affected by physician-related factors and environmental factors, such as financial and regulatory aspects that may be specific to a particular national health system, as well as by patient-specific factors, such as age and comorbidities.

What type of patients do oncologists see?

An oncologist is a doctor who treats cancer and provides medical care for a person diagnosed with cancer. An oncologist may also be called a cancer specialist. The field of oncology has 3 major areas based on treatments: medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology.

Why would you need to see an oncologist?

When Will You See a Medical Oncologist? You'll probably see a medical oncologist right after you've been diagnosed with cancer. This is usually one of the first steps of your cancer journey. They can help you understand your diagnosis as well as the timeline of your cancer treatment.

Do they have to check your privates during a physical?

In This Article: At most physicals, doctors will screen your blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, lungs and head, as well as check your general appearance. Males, specifically, should expect a testicular exam, a hernia exam, a penis exam and a prostate exam.

Does an oncologist study blood?

The term “hematologist oncologist” comes from two different types of doctors. Hematologists specialize in diagnosing and treating blood diseases. Oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating cancers. A hematologist oncologist specializes in both.

Do you see an oncologist for benign tumors?

Even benign tumors can be uncomfortable. If you feel or see a lump, visit an oncologist for an examination. If the doctor confirms that you have a malignant tumor, you will likely feel some uncertainty and fear. However, you can have peace of mind that the doctor will develop an effective treatment plan.

What are 3 tumor markers?

Can a blood test detect all cancers?

Aside from leukemia, a broad term for cancers of the blood cells, most cancers cannot be detected during routine blood work. However, blood tests can provide helpful information about: Overall health. Organ function.

What cancers cause high protein in blood?

Possible Causes

Viral infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C or HIV/AIDS. Blood cancers such as multiple myeloma or certain types of lymphoma. Severe liver or kidney disease.

What cancers show up on blood tests?