If imaging, screening, or a gynecological pelvic exam, along with your symptoms, indicates the possible presence of cancer, we perform tests to confirm the presence of cancerous cells.

To confirm the presence of gynecological cancer—cancer of the cervix, ovaries, uterus, or vagina—we may use one of the following types of diagnostic tests:

• CA 125 assay is a blood test that measures the level of the protein CA 125, which may be a sign of cancer or another condition.
• Barium enema is a series of X-rays of the lower gastrointestinal tract, also known as a lower GI series.
• Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a series of X-rays using a contrast dye to determine if the kidneys or bladder have been affected by cancer.
• Biopsy is removal of cells or tissues to check for signs of cancer.
• Cone biopsy (conization) involves a pathologist viewing the tissue under a microscope to look for cancer cells in the uterus.
• Transvaginal ultrasound (TVU) examines the vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes, and bladder to identify tumors by looking at the sonogram.
• Endometrial sampling is removing tissue for viewing under a microscope to look for cancer cells.
• CT scan (computed tomography): A series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body, taken from different angles.