Kræftdiagnose

Kræftdiagnose refers to the process of confirming the presence of cancer in a patient. The goal of a diagnosis is to establish a definitive diagnosis, identify the type and subtype of cancer, determine the stage, and assess the patient’s suitability for various treatment options. Accurate diagnostic information is essential for prognosis, treatment planning, and monitoring response to therapy.

The diagnostic pathway usually begins after a clinical suspicion is raised due to symptoms, physical examination findings, or abnormal screening tests. The core components of a cancer diagnosis are imaging studies, laboratory tests, and histopathological examination. Common imaging modalities include X‑ray, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and ultrasound. Imaging provides information on tumour size, location, and potential spread to lymph nodes or distant organs. Laboratory tests may identify tumour markers (such as PSA for prostate cancer, CA‑125 for ovarian cancer, CEA for colorectal cancer) that support the diagnosis or guide follow‑up.

Histological confirmation is obtained through a biopsy. Fine-needle aspiration, core‑needle biopsy, or excisional biopsy samples are examined microscopically, and immunohistochemical staining can differentiate cancer subtypes. In some cases, liquid biopsy techniques detect circulating tumour DNA in the blood, providing a non‑invasive alternative when tissue sampling is difficult.

Once a diagnosis is made, the tumor is staged using systems such as the TNM classification, which describes tumour size (T), lymph node involvement (N), and presence of metastasis (M). Staging informs treatment strategy and provides prognostic information. Patients typically receive a multidisciplinary team assessment, involving oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, and supportive care specialists.

Early and precise diagnosis improves survival rates for many cancers. Epidemiological data demonstrate that prompt detection through screening programmes can identify cancers at a stage where curative treatment is more likely. In Denmark, national registries track incidence, stage at diagnosis, and survival outcomes to monitor healthcare effectiveness and guide policy.