Tests for Lung Cancer
Chest x-rays
A chest x-ray is often the first study ordered to evaluate a patient with a complaint of cough or shortness of breath. It allows a photographic image of the lungs to be checked for abnormalities.
CAT Scan
Computed tomography is a type of scanning where cross-sectional images of an area are performed to assess tumor size or possible spread. Typical areas scanned include the chest, head, abdomen and pelvis.
Chest x-rays A chest x-ray is often the first study ordered to evaluate a patient with a complaint of cough or shortness of breath. It allows a photographic image of the lungs to be checked for abnormalities.
CAT Scan
Computed tomography is a type of scanning where cross-sectional images of an area are performed to assess tumor size or possible spread. Typical areas scanned include the chest, head, abdomen and pelvis.Bronchoscopy
Allows direct visualization of the airways. After a numbing medication and sedation are provided, a special flexible tube is passed through the mouth or nose and into the airways where specimens can be taken, aiding in diagnosis.
Sputum Examination
With coughing, tumor cells can be released into the sputum. Collecting a morning specimen can be very helpful in detecting abnormal cells.
PET Scan
The PET scan is a diagnostic tool used to aid in the assessment of tumors. A small dose of a chemical called a radionuclide combined with a sugar is injected into a small intravenous plastic tube in the arm. Because malignant tumors grow at a faster rate than normal tissue, they take up the sugar and therefore, appear abnormal on the scan.
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Allows direct visualization of the airways. After a numbing medication and sedation are provided, a special flexible tube is passed through the mouth or nose and into the airways where specimens can be taken, aiding in diagnosis.
Sputum Examination
With coughing, tumor cells can be released into the sputum. Collecting a morning specimen can be very helpful in detecting abnormal cells.
PET Scan
The PET scan is a diagnostic tool used to aid in the assessment of tumors. A small dose of a chemical called a radionuclide combined with a sugar is injected into a small intravenous plastic tube in the arm. Because malignant tumors grow at a faster rate than normal tissue, they take up the sugar and therefore, appear abnormal on the scan.
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Bone Scan
A bone scan is used to detect areas of bone growth, infection or tumor. This test may be ordered to detect evidence of spread of lung cancer to the bones.
Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer Causes
Lung Cancer Treatment
COPD
Dust Diseases
Asbestosis
Pulmonary Fibrosis
Sarcoidosis
Clearing Your Airways
Better Breather's Club
A bone scan is used to detect areas of bone growth, infection or tumor. This test may be ordered to detect evidence of spread of lung cancer to the bones.
Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer Causes
Lung Cancer Treatment
COPD
Dust Diseases
Asbestosis
Pulmonary Fibrosis
Sarcoidosis
Clearing Your Airways
Better Breather's Club