Laboratory Tests For The Diagnosis Of Breast Cancer

Abstract

Breast cancer (BC) has posed a significant threat to the general health of women globally, with its incidence and mortality rates showing a noticeable increase in China over time. Research indicates that the survival rate for early-stage breast cancer patients is significantly higher compared to those diagnosed at middle or late stages. Therefore, it is crucial to focus on research for the rapid diagnosis of breast cancer. Numerous diagnostic methods have been developed to date, primarily utilizing imaging and molecular biotechnology. These methods have greatly contributed to the diagnosis and follow up of BC. In this review article, a brief explanation has been introduced about the main laboratory methods that are recently used in the diagnosis of BC. It has been concluded that many diagnostic methods have been developed to detect breast cancer at different stages of the tumor. Some of these tests have been used to determine the appropriate chemotherapy method (e.g. molecular tests for gene changes), other are more generic in the determination of many tumor (e.g. complete blood count), while salivary methods are still controversial in the diagnosis of BC.