Cancer

Cancer Early Detection & Diagnostic Services

When it comes to cancer, early detection is the best protection.

That’s why Mercy Regional Cancer Center is committed to making screening and diagnostic services thorough, convenient and easily-accessible. Again, we focus on treating the whole person, using advanced technology for an accurate diagnosis, in a setting that’s comfortable for the patient.

We offer a complete range of testing: mammography, ultrasound, X-ray, laboratory and pathology.

Radiology

In diagnosis, Mercy relies on the most comprehensive approach and advanced technology. Through the use of radiology, or diagnostic imaging, we are able to provide bone scans, general X-rays, MRIs and CT and PET scans. We also do endoscopies (studies of the entire digestive system) and bronchoscopies (studies of the lungs) to detect tumors or polyps. These tests give our physicians better tools to more accurately and quickly diagnose and treat any cancer.

Here, for example, Mercy’s commitment to state-of-the-art care shows in our use of the PET/CT scanner. This device enhances and refines diagnoses by combining Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with Computed Tomography (CT) screening. It allows more accurate, effective treatment because it has the ability to pinpoint location and extent of malignancies.

Mammography

Mercy also offers its mobile mammography service in a van that travels throughout eastern Iowa, serving 18 communities and more than 15 businesses. We have expanded this service for patients’ convenience and to encourage more women to use this detection tool to detect and, where possible, prevent cancer.

Biopsies

We also work closely with Mercy Women’s Center for breast biopsies, which offer benefits over traditional surgery. Biopsies are effective because they have a record of high accuracy. Other advantages include:

• the small amount of lead time the procedure requires
• the procedure is done with local anesthesia
• this approach allows the patient a faster return to normal activities

For more information on services available through Mercy Women’s Center, click here.   

Pathology & Laboratory

Through pathology, we study specimens of blood or tissue under a microscope and compare them to normal body tissue samples to detect any problems. In our laboratory, we conduct blood work, including tests for monitoring ovarian or prostate cancer, and check for infection. 

For more information from the National Library of Medicine & the National Institute of Health, click here.