How is Lung Cancer Diagnosed


If lung cancer is suspected in a series of tests were conducted to help make a diagnosis.

Some of these tests can also show whether the cancer has spread to other body parts. Not all people have all the tests described in this brochure. Your doctors will determine the best tests for you.

X-ray. This is the test first and orderly.
CT or MRI. These tests are highly qualified, computer-generated images showing the divisions and other views of the lungs.
Sputum test. This is the microscopic examination of a sample of mucus by coughing. If an abnormality seen on a radiograph is suggestive of cancer, a sputum test may be ordered. Although this test is usually not as sensitive as a biopsy in many cases, microscopic examination revealed cancer cells expectorated.
Biopsy. This is the removal of a tissue sample for examination under a microscope. A biopsy is the usual way the doctor can be absolutely certain that lung cancer is present. A doctor who specializes in the analysis of tissues (pathologist), then you can see what type of cell that is causing the growth and if a cancer cell.

There are different ways in which a lung biopsy can be obtained.

Needle aspiration. While you are sedated, the doctor inserts a needle through your chest directly in the growth and, guided by X-rays, removing a tissue sample. Moreover, the needle may be pushed to the envelope of tissue surrounding the lungs, removal of fluid from this layer of cancer cells. This technique is preferable for tumors found outside the lungs.
Bronchoscopy. In this procedure, which is more common than needle aspiration, the doctor inserts a thin, flexible, well lit, called a bronchoscope tube into the lungs while under sedation. The scope is passed through either the mouth or nose directly into the trachea, and the doctor is able to view the airways in the lungs. Lung biopsy suspicious anywhere can be done through this tube. This technique is preferable that the tumors are found in the central part of the lung.
For more details on this procedure, go to the bronchoscopy.

On rare occasions, even after all the previous tests, the diagnosis is still uncertain. In this case, a large operation to expose the lung may be necessary. This procedure is known as a thoracotomy. 


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