How is adenoid cystic carcinoma diagnosed?

How is adenoid cystic carcinoma diagnosed?

If your healthcare provider thinks you may have adenoid cystic carcinoma, they will likely take a biopsy. The tissue sample will be sent to a pathology lab for further testing. Your provider may also take one or more imaging tests, including:

• A CT (computed tomography) scan. A CT scan captures numerous X-ray images and stitches them together for a detailed, 3-D picture.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This procedure uses powerful magnets and radio waves to capture detailed images inside your body.
• A PET scan. This imaging test uses a safe injectable chemical (called a radiotracer) to reveal how your organs are functioning in real time.