Diagnosing gastrointestinal malignancies.

OBJECTIVES

To provide an overview of imaging studies that can be used to help diagnose gastrointestinal malignancies and a brief description of tumor markers specific for these cancers.

DATA SOURCES

Published professional articles, textbooks, and clinical procedural manuals.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnosing gastrointestinal malignancies can be problematic due to the relative lack of signs and symptoms, especially early in the disease process. While clinical suspicion may lead to a tentative diagnosis, imaging studies and tumor markers can provide confirmation of the suspected malignancy.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

An understanding of the requirements of imaging studies and tumor markers will allow for better preparation of the patient by the nurse for the test and can assist the nurse in helping the patient understand the need for and results of the diagnostic work-up.