Before treating a tumour, the diagnosis of cancer must be proven by obtaining cells by eedle or surgical biopsy. There are a number of tests used in the diagnosis of lung cancer. The number and type of tests that your doctor orders will depend on the kind of information that your doctor requires to get a clear picture about the type of lung cancer you have and to determine if it has spread to other parts of your body. All of this information is required to develop a treatment plan that meets your unique needs.
Some of the diagnostic tests include:
Chest X-ray
Sputum cytology
Bronchoscopy
Blood tests
CT scan
Depending on the results of these tests, your doctor may also request that you undergo tests such as:
Needle or surgical biopsy
Mediastinoscopy
Thoracoscopy
Abdominal CT scan
MRI