Lung Cancer Diagnosis Methods-Tests-Procedures - Lung Cancer Diagnosis Methods, Tests, Procedures

Tests and diagnosis

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Bronchoscopy
Screening
Doctors aren't sure whether you should undergo screening for lung cancer. Even if you have an increased risk of lung cancer — for instance, if you're a smoker — it isn't clear that a chest X-ray or computerized tomography (CT) scan can be beneficial. Some studies show that these tests can find cancer earlier, when it may be treated more successfully. But other studies find that these tests often reveal more benign conditions that require invasive testing and expose people to unnecessary risks.

Screening for lung cancer is controversial among doctors. Studies are ongoing to determine what types of tests may be helpful and who would benefit from lung cancer screening. In the mean time, talk with your doctor if you're concerned about your risk of lung cancer. Together you can determine strategies to reduce your risk and decide whether screening tests are appropriate for you.

Diagnosis
If there's reason to think that you may have lung cancer, your doctor can order a number of tests to look for cancerous cells and to rule out other conditions. In order to diagnose lung cancer, your doctor may recommend:

Imaging tests. An X-ray image of your lungs may reveal an abnormal mass or nodule. A CT scan can reveal small lesions in your lungs.
Sputum cytology. If you have a cough and are producing sputum, looking at the sputum under the microscope can sometimes reveal the presence of lung cancer cells. Before the test, you may be asked to breathe a mildly irritating mist to help you produce more sputum.
Tissue samples (biopsy). A sample of abnormal cells may be removed in a procedure called a biopsy in order to diagnose lung cancer. Your doctor can perform a biopsy in a number of ways, including bronchoscopy, in which your doctor examines abnormal areas of your lungs using a lighted tube that is passed down your throat and into your lungs; mediastinoscopy, in which an incision is made at the base of your neck and surgical tools are inserted behind your breastbone to take tissue samples; and needle biopsy, in which your doctor uses X-ray or CT images to guide a needle through your chest and into a suspicious lump or nodule to collect cells. A biopsy sample may also be taken from lymph nodes or other areas where cancer has spread, such as your liver.