Ewing’s sarcoma diagnosis
There are a series of tests and investigations which can be done to confirm or rule out a diagnosis of Ewing’s sarcoma, and to find out whether the cancer has spread to other parts of your body. The tests will also check your general health.
X-rays
These will confirm the shape and position of the tumour.
Bone scan
You will be given an injection of a very small dose of radioactive substance (an isotope) which collects in the bones. Once the isotope has had time to reach the bones, a special gamma camera takes pictures of your bones. A bone scan will show up abnormal areas where more of the isotope has collected.
Biopsy
This is the removal of a piece of bone which will then be examined under a microscope. Biopsies are the only definite way to find out whether the lump is malignant or not. Most biopsies are performed with a needle. If the needle biopsy is inconclusive then your doctor may recommend a small operation called an open biopsy.
You may have other tests, which include a CT scan or MRI scan. This will give us more information about the tumour and whether it has spread.