Making the Diagnosis
Lung cancer is usually suspected when a chest X-ray shows a shadow on the
lung. To confirm the diagnosis, a doctor will examine phlegm or mucus that
is coughed up. A lesion found on a chest X-ray can be confirmed by a CT scan
of the chest and a long needle can be placed through the chest under CT guidance
to biopsy (take a sample of) the lesion. Doctors will usually examine the lungs
through a viewing instrument inserted into the bronchi. This procedure is called
a bronchoscopy. A biopsy may also be done during the bronchoscopy. During
a biopsy, a sample of tissue is removed from the tumor and later inspected
with a microscope. Tissue for a biopsy may also be surgically removed by opening
the chest.