Ernakulam Medical College needs to power Kochi Cancer Centre OP: Experts
KOCHI: Experts say that close co-ordination between Ernakulam Government Medical College and the soon-to be-opened Kochi Cancer Centre outpatient (OP) wing is key to the effective functioning of the OP. For this, the pathology lab of the medical college has to be strengthened with more personnel and facilities so that diagnostic tests can be effectively conducted.
Advanced modes of detecting tests like Immuno Histo Chemistry (IHC) and modern microscopes should be deployed in the pathology lab of the medical college for apt diagnosis and these are not expensive. “There is Rs 10 crore sanctioned by the previous government to set up the OP. It is meant not just for buying chairs and tables and making a plush exterior. One IHC kit (antibodies) for use in the case of a patient costs from Rs 500- 1,000 and just Rs 1 lakh from the amount sanctioned would cater to a lot number of patients,” said an associate professor with a leading medical college.
“Accurate diagnosis of cancers is crucial for treatment since different types of cancer can affect any organ. Apart from symptoms and clinical examination by doctors the final diagnosis is made through investigations. Starting from routine tests, the patient undergoes endoscopy and scanning tests up to MRI and PET scans. With these reports we reach a provisional diagnosis,” says the doctor.
Then there is the definite diagnosis by histological studies by examining the nature of cells by pathologists. “Doctors collect specimens from suspected areas through methods like FNAC, fine needle aspiration cytology, or biopsy. FNAC is a simple procedure of aspiration of specimen with a needle in the consultation room itself.
“RCC initially availed facilities of laboratory and operation theatres of nearby medial college. Same can be adopted in Kochi. Even cancer surgeries can be done in the MC by deploying more surgeons. Also strengthen the biochemistry lab. The bottom line is medical college and cancer OP have to co-exist,” said the doctor.
