Diagnosing lung cancer
After a physical examination, your doctor will tell you how to prepare for specific tests, such as:
- Imaging
tests: An
abnormal mass can be seen on X-ray, MRI, CT, and PET
scans. These scans produce more detail and find smaller lesions.
- Sputum
cytology: If you
produce phlegm when you cough, microscopic examination can determine if
cancer cells are present.
A biopsy can determine
if tumor cells are cancerous. A tissue sample can be obtained by:
- Bronchoscopy: While under sedation, a lighted
tube is passed down your throat and into your lungs, allowing closer
examination.
- Mediastinoscopy: The doctor makes an incision at
the base of the neck. A lighted instrument is inserted and surgical tools
are used to take samples from lymph nodes. It’s usually performed in a
hospital under general anesthesia.
- Needle: Using imaging tests as a guide,
a needle is inserted through the chest wall and into the suspicious lung
tissue. Needle biopsy can also be used to test lymph nodes.
Tissue samples are sent
to a pathologist for analysis. If the result is positive for cancer, further
testing, such as a bone scan, can help determine if cancer has spread and to
help with staging.
For this test, you’ll be
injected with a radioactive chemical. Abnormal areas of bone will then be
highlighted on the images. MRI, CT, and PET scan are also used for staging.
It’s usually a good idea
to seek a second opinion before beginning treatment. Your doctor may be able to
help make that happen. If you’re diagnosed with lung cancer, your care will
likely be managed by a team of doctors who may include:
- a surgeon
who specializes in the chest and lungs (thoracic surgeon)
- a lung
specialist (pulmonologist)
- a medical
oncologist
- a
radiation oncologist
Discuss all your
treatment options before making a decision. Your doctors will coordinate care
and keep each other informed.
Treatment for non-small
cell lung cancer (NSCLC) varies from person to person. Much depends on specific
details of your health.
Stage 1 NSCLC:
Surgery to remove a portion of the lung may be all you need. Chemotherapy may
also be recommended, especially if you’re at high risk of recurrence.
Stage 2 NSCLC: You
may need surgery to remove part or all of your lung. Chemotherapy is usually
recommended.
Stage 3 NSCLC: You
may require a combination of chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation treatment.
Stage 4 NSCLC is
particularly hard to cure. Options include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy,
targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
Options for small cell-lung
cancer (NSCLC) also include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
In most cases, the cancer will be too advanced for surgery.
Clinical trials provide
access to promising new treatments. Ask your doctor if you’re eligible for a
clinical trial.
Some people with
advanced lung cancer choose not to continue with treatment. You can still
choose palliative care treatments, which are focused on treating the symptoms
of cancer rather than the cancer itself.
Comments
Post a Comment