Staging and Investigations of Lung Cancer

Abstract

Lung cancer is a common malignancy.  Investigation and staging of lung cancer form an important aspect of managing this disease.  The initial assessment usually requires imaging such as a chest radiograph, computed tomography (CT) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) CT.  These imaging techniques aid in the staging of lung cancer and targeting the biopsy sites for histological diagnosis.  A CT guided biopsy, radial endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) or navigational bronchoscopy may be used for sampling more peripheral lesions.  Flexible bronchoscopy may be used for endobronchial lesions biopsy.  EBUS and endoscopic ultrasound or surgical mediastinoscopy are used for accurate mediastinal lymph node staging.  There are designated pathways, which allow for accurate and timely investigations of lung cancer.  Due to the complexity of the investigations of lung cancer, a multidisciplinary approach is required in order to provide the best outcomes for the patients.