Imaging is really important for finding and treating tumors. There are different types of imaging tools, each with their pros and cons. Here are some of the main types:

1. Computed Tomography (CT) Scan:

   • This type of scan helps doctors find out where a tumor is, how big it is, and how far it has spread.
   • It can detect lung cancer about 94% of the time and is correct around 73% of the time when it says there is no cancer.
   • CT scans are also useful for checking how well treatment is working.

2. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):

   • MRIs are really good for looking at soft tissues, like those in the brain.
   • They can find brain tumors called gliomas with a sensitivity of 95%, meaning they are very accurate.
   • Using special dyes in MRIs makes it easier to see the tumors and how they connect to nearby structures.

3. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan:

   • PET scans help identify how active a tumor is.
   • They are especially good for types of cancer like lymphomas and neuroendocrine tumors.
   • When PET is combined with CT, it makes finding and staging cancers even more accurate, improving results by 30% to 40%.

4. Ultrasound (US):

   • This is often used to check tumors in organs like the liver and kidneys.
   • Ultrasounds can tell apart harmless masses from harmful ones about 83% of the time.

5. Mammography:

   • This is the main way to screen for breast cancer.
   • Mammograms can find about 85% of breast cancers in women aged 50 to 74.

6. Fluoroscopy:

   • This method is used less often, but it can help guide doctors during biopsies or check how tumors are functioning.

In short, the choice of which imaging tool to use depends on the type of tumor, where it is, and each person’s situation. Using different imaging methods together usually gives the best results. Overall, imaging techniques are really important for finding tumors early, accurately staging them, and helping manage cancer treatments.