Methods of Diagnosing Lung Cancer

A doctor will evaluate several factors when diagnosing lung cancer. The person's smoking history, exposure to occupational hazards and family history will be taken into account. A chest x-ray will be taken, and if cancer is suspected, sputum cytology(looking at the cells under a microscope from a deep-cough sample) will also be done.

• Chest X-Ray Chest x-rays are radiographic studies used for diagnosing unusual masses within the lungs.

• CAT Scan / CT Scan CAT scans are used to detect abnormalities in structures of the body. Computed tomography is a noninvasive procedure, meaning no entry of the body is necessary.

To confirm the presence of cancer, the doctor will want a biopsy of lung tissue to review under a microscope. There are several ways to do the biopsy.

• Bronchoscopy A bronchoscope(a thin, lighted tube) is inserted into the lungs through the nose or mouth and down the windpipe. A small sample of tissue can be obtained using this tool.

• Needle Aspiration A needle is inserted into the the tumor through the chest to obtain the sample.

• Thoracentesis This method uses a needle to remove a sample of the fluid which surrounds the lungs to check for cancer cells.

• Thoracotomy This is a major surgical procedure in which the chest is opened to look for the presence of cancer.

See Also:

• Why It's Important to Get a Second Opinion
• What to Do When You've Been Diagnosed with a Lung Disease

_{Information for this article obtained from NCI, which is a division of The National Institutes of Health (NIH).}