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Lung Cancer Diagnosis

While symptoms of lung cancer may vary from patient to patient, the diagnostic procedures involved are practically the same. Those who exhibit symptoms of lung cancer should meet with their physician or an oncologist to receive a physical exam and to discuss all health concerns. Any previous exposure to asbestos is information that should be relayed to your doctor. If lung cancer is suspected, additional tests may be required to confirm a diagnosis. There are several tests to choose from when trying to diagnose lung cancer.

Tests for Diagnosing Lung Cancer

Testing for lung cancer may require the use of a variety of X-rays. The information these tests provide help physicians determine the presence of lung cancer and how far the cancer has developed. Treatment options will also be formed based on these results. The following tests may be used to diagnose lung cancer:

• Chest X-ray – A chest X-ray may be one of the first tests administered for detecting lung cancer. X-rays are flat pictures of the lung that help identify abnormal growths. If lung cancer is suspected, other tests will likely be ordered.
• Computer Tomography (CT) Scan – A CT scan is a device that uses a computer to create two-dimensional images from a series of X-ray pictures. While a patient is lying down, the CT scanner rotates around and takes several pictures from a multitude of angles.
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan – This scan requires the use of a radioactive sugar substance that will be absorbed by cancerous cells. The PET scan records the areas where higher concentrations of radioactivity accumulated.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan – An MRI scan is similar to a CT scan other that the fact that it uses a magnetic field instead of X-rays to create an image.
• Bronchoscopy – During this procedure, a small, flexible tube (bronchoscope) is inserted into the nose or mouth and through the throat to reach the main airways of the lungs. The tube, which has a light at the end of it, enables the doctor to see any abnormal areas or tumors. Cell tissue can also be obtained for further evaluation under a microscope. 
• Sputum Cytology – This test examines a sample of phlegm coughed up from the lungs under a microscope to check for abnormal or cancerous cells.

While all of these tests aid physicians in their diagnosis, a biopsy is the only definitive test for diagnosing lung cancer. Biopsies require the removal of lung tissue samples for examination under a microscope. They can be obtained by using a number of methods, including a bronchoscopy, small surgery, insertion of a needle through the chest, or the removal and examination of an enlarged lymph node in the neck.

Diagnosing Pleural Mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma is a form of lung cancer almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. This type of cancer develops from asbestos fibers being inhaled and becoming lodged in the lining of the lungs.  In a similar fashion to lung cancer, pleural mesothelioma can be detected using a number of tests and procedures, but a biopsy is the only definitive method to receiving a solidified diagnosis. The development of pleural mesothelioma can take decades to occur and due to symptoms resembling other conditions, diagnosing this rare cancer can be very difficult.

Sources

1. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/lung-cancer/DS00038/DSECTION=tests-and-diagnosis
2. http://www.lungcancer.org/reading/diagnosis.php