How is a lung tumor diagnosed?
Jan 17, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingzhong
Introduction
1. Chest X-ray examination can determine the location and size of pulmonary masses and also detect atelectasis and emphysema.
2. Bronchoscopy enables direct visualization of lesions involving the bronchial mucosa and lumen.
3. Cytological examination is a simple and effective method for lung cancer screening and diagnosis.
Pulmonary tumors refer to neoplasms arising within the lung parenchyma and interstitium. Based on their origin, they are classified as primary or secondary (metastatic); according to biological behavior, as benign or malignant; and based on histomorphology, as epithelial tumors, soft-tissue tumors, or mesotheliomas. Below, we address the question: “How are pulmonary tumors diagnosed?”
How Are Pulmonary Tumors Diagnosed?
1. Chest radiography: This enables assessment of the location and size of pulmonary masses, as well as evaluation of associated findings such as atelectasis, emphysema, lesion localization, and pulmonary inflammation.
2. Bronchoscopy: Direct visualization of the bronchial mucosa and lumen allows detection of endobronchial lesions. Biopsy specimens can be obtained for histopathological examination, or bronchial secretions may be aspirated for cytological analysis—both critical for definitive diagnosis and histological subtyping. Bronchoscopy is a key diagnostic tool for centrally located lung cancers.
3. Cytological examination: Cytology is a simple, effective method widely used in both lung cancer screening and diagnosis.
4. Thoracotomy (exploratory surgery): When the nature of a pulmonary mass remains indeterminate despite multiple diagnostic tests and short-term empirical therapy—and when lung cancer cannot be definitively ruled out—exploratory thoracotomy should be performed. This avoids delays in diagnosis and ensures timely initiation of early-stage treatment for potential lung cancer patients.
5. Chest CT: Computed tomography provides more detailed, three-dimensional visualization of pulmonary masses—including precise measurement of size, assessment of local invasion, and detection of intrapulmonary metastases.
6. Mediastinoscopy: This procedure is primarily indicated for patients with mediastinal lymph node metastases who are not surgical candidates, and in whom other diagnostic modalities have failed to yield a definitive pathological diagnosis.
7. ECT bone scan: Radionuclide bone scintigraphy (ECT) can detect osseous metastases at an earlier stage than conventional imaging.
The above outlines the principal diagnostic approaches for pulmonary tumors. We hope this information proves helpful.
