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OnkoVodič – Rak Dojke Srbija
OnkoVodičRak Dojke Srbija
Step 2

Completing findings and referral to the tumor board

Preparing findings and referral to the tumor board
Specialist doctors carry out additional tests: (, and ), radiological examinations (abdominal , , , ) – as the doctor considers necessary. Based on the results, the patient is referred to the , where a team of doctors decides on further treatment.
Radiological examinations

Abdominal , of the chest/abdomen/pelvis, , of the brain or spine (if there are symptoms) – as the doctor considers necessary.

Laboratory

Blood and (, ). They help monitor the course of the disease, but on their own they are not sufficient for a diagnosis.

Preparing documentation

All findings, images (+ reports) and need to be collected. Everything is brought to the for review.

Tumor board review

A multidisciplinary team of doctors decides on the treatment: (if feasible), (, , ) or .

Next step

Based on all findings, the proposes an individualized treatment plan, which is then implemented while the disease is under control.

Are all examinations mandatory?

No – the type and scope of examinations depend on your symptoms and on which metastases are suspected. The doctor determines what is most important in your situation. If active disease (metastases) is confirmed, additional examinations are done to determine how far the disease has spread to other parts of the body.

How long are findings valid?

Usually 1–3 months. If a test or scan ‘expires’, the may request a repeat before deciding on treatment. In general, if metastatic disease is found, cancer treatment should start within one month of the radiological diagnosis.

Why are different examinations needed?

Each method provides different information: shows organ details, a detects changes in the bones, and of the brain and spine reveals changes that other examinations don't see. Combining the findings gives a complete picture.

What does the tumor board do?

The brings together the , the and , and often a and . Together they determine the treatment based on the extent of the disease, the patient's general condition and previous treatments.

How to prepare?

  • Gather all images and reports in one place.
  • Write down your symptoms and when they started.
  • If you wish, prepare questions for the doctor about the treatment.