Vedanta Multispeciality Hospital

Specialty

Oncology

Information and support around cancer concerns: evaluating symptoms, understanding results and planning the next steps with a specialist.

About oncology

Oncology is the branch of medicine that deals with cancer. An oncologist helps with diagnosis, explains the type and stage of a cancer, discusses the treatment options available and coordinates follow-up. Many people first meet an oncologist because a scan, a blood test or a lump has raised a question, which is often a stressful time. A specialist can explain what the findings do and do not mean.

Reasons people seek an oncology opinion

  • A lump or swelling that does not go away
  • An abnormal scan, biopsy or blood test result
  • A diagnosis of cancer and questions about treatment
  • Follow-up after cancer treatment
  • A strong family history of cancer
  • Questions about screening for common cancers

Symptoms worth discussing with a doctor

  • An unexplained lump, or a change in a mole or skin lesion
  • Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
  • A persistent cough, hoarseness or difficulty swallowing
  • Bleeding that is unusual, or blood in the stool or urine
  • Changes in bowel habits that continue
  • Sores that do not heal

These symptoms have many common causes that are not cancer, but they should be checked rather than ignored.

Doctors in Oncology

No doctors are listed for this specialty yet. Please contact the hospital for current availability.

Tests your doctor may suggest

Assessment may include examination, imaging, blood tests and, where needed, a biopsy. A single blood marker cannot diagnose cancer on its own, so results are always read together with your symptoms and other findings.

What to expect at your first visit

Bring a photo ID, any previous prescriptions, reports and scans, and a list of the medicines and supplements you take. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, how long you have had them and your medical and family history, examine you, and explain whether any tests are needed. Please confirm available services, timings and fees with the hospital before you visit.

You are welcome to bring a family member. It can help to write down your questions beforehand.

When to seek urgent care

Heavy bleeding, severe pain, difficulty breathing, high fever during treatment or sudden confusion need urgent medical attention.

This page is general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Services, doctors and timings should be confirmed with the hospital.

FAQs

Oncology: common questions

Does a lump always mean cancer?
No. Most lumps are not cancer, but any new lump that persists should be examined by a doctor.
Can a blood test diagnose cancer?
Usually not on its own. Tumour marker tests can support a diagnosis or monitoring, but they are interpreted with examination, imaging and other tests.
Should I bring my reports to the appointment?
Yes. Bring all scans, biopsy and blood reports, along with a list of your medicines, so the doctor can see the full picture.
Can I ask for a second opinion?
Yes. Asking for a second opinion is a normal part of making an important decision about your health.

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Other specialties

Cardiology Orthopedics Neurology Gynecology & Obstetrics Pediatrics General Medicine Gastroenterology Urology ENT Dermatology Pulmonology