How is ampullary cancer diagnosed?

How is ampullary cancer diagnosed?

Because the first sign of ampullary cancer is usually jaundice, yellowing of the skin is often the reason that many healthcare providers begin testing for the disease. Tests used to diagnose ampullary cancer include:

• Blood or urine tests to check for cancer markers.
• Imaging tests to look for tumors, which may include CT (computed tomography) scans, ultrasounds or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Upper endoscopy, which involves using a tiny camera to check for cancer inside of your body.
• ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography), which can tell your provider if your bile duct is blocked.
• A biopsy, which involves collecting a small sample of cells for analysis.