Tests to look for cancerous cells and rule out other conditions in diagnosis of lung cancer include –
Sputum Cytology –
in case you have cough and produce sputum, observing sputum under microscope can at times reveal presence of lung cancer cells.
X-ray image of lungs can reveal abnormal mass or nodules; though a CT scan may reveal small lesions in lungs which might not be detected by X-rays.
Tissue Sample Biopsy –
Sample of abnormal cells can be removed through biopsy procedures like bronchoscopy, mediastinoscopy, or needle biopsy using X-ray or CT images through chest wall and lung tissue so as to collect suspicious lung cells. Biopsy samples can be taken from lymph nodes and/or or other areas where cancer has spread.
Stages of Lung Cancer
Once lung cancer is diagnosed, extent or staging of cancer will help decide the most appropriate treatment procedure of disease. Tests for staging may include imaging so as to look for evidence of cancer spread beyond lungs. These may include bone scans, positron emission tomography (PET),
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
or CT scans
Lung Cancer Stages
Stage I –
Cancer is limited to lung and has not spread to lymph nodes at this stage. Tumor is typically smaller than 5 cm or 2 inches at this stage.
Stage II –
Tumor may have grown over 5 cm or 2 inches at this stage or may be smaller yet involving nearby structures like lymph nodes, diaphragm, chest wall or pleura, the lining around lungs.
Stage III –
