Tests

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Tests and examinations are used by doctors and consultants to collect further information and assist them to identify an illness or condition (reach a diagnosis).

Some common diagnostic tests that you may be asked to have are:

Biopsy - a small sample is tissue is taken to look for certain conditions.
Blood test - a small amount of blood is taken from a vein, usually in the arm or hand and tested for certain conditions.
X-ray - pictures of the bones taken using electromagnetic radiation.
Mammogram - x-ray pictures of the breasts.
Computerised tomography scan - also known as CT scan and CAT scan, this machine makes a special kind of detailed x-ray of parts of the body.
Magnetic resonance imaging - an MRI scan uses magnetic and radio waves to create pictures of body tissue.
Electrocardiograph â€“ an ECG uses sound waves to check the rhythm of the heart.
Electroencephalogram â€“ an EEG records electrical activity in the brain.
Cervical smear test â€“ a sample of cells from the cervix are taken to test for pre-cancerous cells.
Urine test - a sample of urine is tested for signs of specific conditions.