Priprema za konzilijum

Step 4

Preparation for the tumor board (gathering findings)

Preparing findings and documentation for the tumor board

To present a patient to the , results need to be gathered: from the , , and diagnostics (, , and per doctor's opinion, of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis to assess disease spread). Most of this can be done at or health care level.

Where is it done?

Laboratory tests and basic imaging at the or . is performed at and health care facilities. Referral is issued by the or specialist.

Documentation (checklist)

All images and reports, list of your medications and allergies, information about chronic conditions. Organize in a folder in chronological order.

Radiological examinations

Standard: and . If needed, of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. Goal: assess the anatomical spread of breast cancer to other tissues and organs, which determines the initial stage of the disease.

Laboratory tests

Basic and biochemical analyses should be done before going to the .

Timeframes/validity

Blood tests are usually valid for ~1 month; images for 3–6 months. If something is outdated, they may request a repeat before the tumor board.

How long is the wait for the tumor board

The wait for the tumor board is from a few days to a few weeks after completing all findings. If the clinical situation is urgent (rapidly growing tumor, pronounced symptoms), the doctor may request an urgent appointment.

What if the wait is prolonged

If the waiting time exceeds recommended timeframes, the patient has the right to ask for expedited scheduling, inquire about alternative appointments at another facility, or request a temporary opinion/plan from an oncologist while waiting for the tumor board.

I don't have all the findings – can I go to the tumor board?

It's best to complete everything, but if something is in progress or urgent, the doctor can forward you with a note that remaining findings will be submitted later.

Preparation for CT with contrast?

The patient receives instructions for preparation. Preparation includes determining creatinine and urea values, as well as reporting any allergies to medications or iodine. You should arrive hydrated, without metal objects, and bring previous images for comparison.

Who issues referrals and how to expedite?

/ or specialist. If there is suspicion of faster disease spread or pronounced symptoms, emphasize this to the doctor - expedited scheduling is often possible.

When to seek clarification or a second opinion?

When it's unclear why a certain examination or repeat examination was requested.
When deadlines are prolonged – ask about alternative appointments/facilities.
You can always request copies of findings for a second opinion or for comparison with future findings.

Brief checklist before the tumor board

+ , , , .
+ ; per doctor's assessment.
Blood tests done recently.
All images + reports, organized in a folder.
List of medications you use, allergies, and chronic conditions.

If something is missing

Inform your doctor who is referring you to the . Some decisions can be made with partial findings, with a plan to complete the rest. The goal is not to waste time while ensuring the medical team has enough information.

What follows after preparation?

After you gather everything, you will be registered for the . At the itself (next step in the journey), the multidisciplinary team makes the treatment plan. You will receive a written conclusion and instructions for next steps.