Investigations
Gastroscopy or OGD (oesophagogastroscopy)
This is the name for an endoscopy test to look at the lining of the oesophagus, stomach and first part of the duodenum. This is the most important test used for diagnosing stomach cancer. Biopsies of the cancer can be taken at the same time. Other tests are used to stage disease and find out whether it is curable and what the best options for treatment are.
Barium meal
This is another way of examining the stomach that is not often used in modern practice. It is useful in people who have had previous stomach surgery where it can be difficult to get access to abnormal areas with the endoscope; biopsies cannot be taken using barium studies.
Ultrasound scans of the abdomen
Especially of the liver to look for metastases.
Endoluminal ultrasound (EUS)
Not commonly used - this is done during an endoscopy as a day case procedure.
Blood tests
Liver function tests (LFTs) show jaundice, full blood count may show anaemia.
Laparoscopy
Keyhole surgery may used to perform a detailed ultrasound scan of the stomach and surrounding area.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan
Used to identify disease staging.
Computed Tomography (CT) scan
Used to identify disease staging.
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Amended November 2008
