Urgent care vs. the ER: How to know where to go
June 11, 2026
Visit the ER for serious illness or injuries when you need emergency care. Visit urgent care for minor injuries or illnesses that need same-day care.
Cancer tests and imaging in Illinois
Oncologists at Ascension Illinois use advanced tests and imaging to diagnose and treat cancer
Cancer tests and imaging for personalized treatment
Tests and imaging help your doctor understand where cancer began and whether it has spread.
At Ascension Illinois, we use leading-edge diagnostic tools, including molecular and genetic testing, to identify cancer types and support personalized treatment planning.
Whether you're experiencing symptoms, undergoing preventive screening or managing a cancer diagnosis, our oncologists work with your primary care doctor to support early detection and coordinated care.
A mammogram could save your life
If you are age 40 or older, a breast screening should be part of your annual wellness visit. Women with a family history or increased risk of breast cancer may be recommended to begin screening earlier.
Ascension Illinois offers comprehensive, dedicated high-risk breast cancer clinics and genetic counseling services to help you have your best breast health.
Know your cancer risk
Even if you don’t have a family history of cancer or aren’t having symptoms, talk with your doctor about your risk factors.
Our doctors at Ascension Illinois provide tests and screenings for breast cancer, cervical cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, thyroid cancer, throat cancer and other cancers.
Cancer tests and imaging in Illinois
Our oncology team uses the most advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate symptoms, detect cancer and create a treatment plan that's right for you.
A biopsy evaluates tissue or cells to help diagnose cancer and determine its stage.
Blood tests measure substances found in your blood and can help detect or monitor certain conditions, including cancer.
A colonoscopy uses a flexible tube with a small camera to examine the inside of the colon and detect abnormalities.
A CT scan uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed images of the body.
An endoscopy uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to view the digestive tract and collect tissue samples if needed.
Genetic testing may help identify inherited cancer risk and guide screening or treatment decisions.
This test checks for human papillomavirus (HPV), which is linked to certain cancers, including cervical, throat and anal cancers.
A low-dose CT scan uses less radiation than a standard CT scan and is often used for lung cancer screening.
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to detect cancer and other changes in breast tissue.
An MRI uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues.
This type of imaging uses a small amount of radioactive material to evaluate organs and detect abnormalities.
A Pap test checks cervical cells for changes that may lead to cancer.
A positron emission tomography (PET) scan helps evaluate how tissues and organs are functioning and may be used to detect cancer or monitor treatment.
A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test measures levels of prostate-specific antigen in the blood and may be used for prostate cancer screening or monitoring.
Stool tests check for signs of disease in the digestive tract and may be used for colorectal cancer screening.
Ultrasound uses high-energy sound waves to create images of blood vessels, tissues and organs.
X-rays use low doses of radiation to create images of your tissues, bones and organs.
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, go directly to the ER or call 911.
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