Diagnosis Options
Patients at the United Health Services Hospitals have access to a full spectrum
of diagnostic tools to help determine the existence and extent of cancer.
Because an early and precise diagnosis offers the best hope for successful
cancer treatment, we continually invest in cutting-edge diagnostic technology.
There are a variety of diagnostic tests that your physician may recommend for
you, depending on your individual situation.
All of these tests are typically done in an outpatient setting and vary in the
length of time they take to complete.
Flow Cytometry Brings High Precision to
Diagnosing and Classifying Cancer
New upgrades in the flow cytometry equipment in the United Health Services
Pathology Department mean faster, more accurate results for studies to diagnose
and classify leukemia and lymphoma. Flow cytometry combines optical and
fluorescence techniques with electronics and computer technology to analyze the
physical and chemical characteristics of cells. By creating a four-color view
that enumerates cell populations with very high precision in blood, bone marrow
and tissues, the equipment can detect even the smallest number of cancer cells.
In addition to diagnostic applications, flow cytometry is also used to determine
the prognosis for breast cancer patients. As the only location in the Southern
Tier of New York to provide flow cytometry analyses, the lab processes about 200
analyses for leukemia and lymphoma, and about 100 analyses for breast cancer
prognosis each year.
Pathology Services Speed Diagnosis The United Health Services Pathology Department staff includes the only
dermatopathologist and neuropathologist in the region, and the area's only board
certified cytopathologist. The specialists on the pathology team provide a
caliber of diagnosis that typically is only available in larger metropolitan
areas. The team provides fast turnaround on studies of tissues, organs and body
fluids to diagnose diseases. Our team of experts can diagnose various types of
leukemia and lymphoma, diseases of the central nervous system, and skin cancer.
The pathology staff is complemented by sophisticated technology, such as the
automated immunohistochemistry equipment that aids in the diagnosis of tumors,
and flow cytometry for the refined diagnosis of leukemia and lymphoma.
Scanner Combines PET and CT Technology At the Accu-Site PET/CT Center in Wilson Square, leading-edge technology gives
radiologists the ability to combine the images of two of their most important
scanning tools -- positron emission tomography (PET) and computer tomography
(CT). Using the GE Discovery LS, specialists in our community get a more
accurate view of tumors and of the effectiveness of cancer treatments. The scan
has the ability to show diseases before other tests can detect them and greatly
increases the possibility of early diagnosis and treatment, especially in
hard-to-assess cancer cases. Instead of patients waiting two or more hours for
separate PET and CT scans, they can have one 35-minute PET/CT scan that produces
more detailed images and ultimately aids in detection and treatment of cancer.
MCD Scan Helps Evaluate Tumors The Molecular Coincidence Detection (MCD) Gamma Camera at United Health Services
Hospitals allows physicians to precisely locate and evaluate cancerous tumors
and can often eliminate the need for a surgical biopsy. The capabilities of the
scanner surpass X-ray or CT scan technology because in addition to showing
physical structure, the MCD scan also allows us to study function of organs and
body systems. For cancer patients, the MCD scan is used in diagnosis of the
disease and for follow-up testing. Scans completed after chemotherapy treatments
can give physicians concrete information about the effectiveness of the therapy
in shrinking or eliminating a tumor.
Counseling Services Help Patients Cope A diagnosis of cancer can be frightening and confusing. Our comprehensive
oncology services include programs to help patients and their families find the
emotional and spiritual support they need. We provide nutritional counseling,
social work, pastoral care and other special services. Our many support groups
include sessions for patients, family members and friends.
