Lung cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control, although rates have been dropping as more people have quit smoking. Lung cancer may begin in the lungs or metastasize from other sites in the body. There are two types: small cell and non-small cell. Each has different treatments.
How Lung Cancer is Diagnosed
If your doctor determines that your medical history, including smoking, exposure to certain substances such as asbestos, and family history of cancer, put you at risk of lung cancer, he or she may recommend you be screened. A variety of tests are used to diagnose lung cancer, such as:
- Chest X-ray – an X-ray to check for abnormal areas on the lungs.
- CT scan – a series of X-rays put together by a computer to create images of the lung. A special spiral or helical CT scan may identify smaller tumors than a regular X-ray.
- Ion navigational bronchoscopy - a state-of-the-art, robotic-assisted technology that provides precise and stable navigation deep into a patient's lungs incorporating a 3D road map of a patient's CT scan. Physicians are able to biopsy suspicious nodules in real-time and confirm diagnosis during the procedure, ultimately detecting lung cancer early for the best possible outcomes.
- Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) - a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose different types of lung disorders including cancer. Performed by a pulmonologist, EBUS bronchoscopy uses a flexible tube that goes through a patient's mouth and into the windpipe and lungs, combined with ultrasound imaging, to evaluate and sample tissues in the lungs and surrounding lymph nodes.
- Sputum cytology – Examination of a sample of mucus from the lungs.
- Biopsy – Removal of a sample of lung tissue to be tested for cancer cells. Methods of lung biopsy include bronchoscopy, needle aspiration and thoracentesis, during which the doctor withdraws fluid from your lungs.
- Pulmonary function tests – These measure how well your lungs work and provide your doctor with information about what kind of treatments may be appropriate for you.
A dedicated oncology nurse navigator is available to help you through the process of diagnosis and into treatment. To reach our navigator, please call 508-862-7661.
How Lung Cancer is Treated
Your treatment will be customized to your situation, taking into consideration the type, location and stage of cancer. Our Thoracic Oncology Multidisciplinary Conference includes a cross-section of healthcare providers, such as surgeons, oncologists and social workers, who determine the optimal mode of treatment. They will meet regularly about your care and can consult with experts from our partner hospitals, such as Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Your treatment may involve:
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Jeffrey Spillane, MD, is skilled in all types of thoracic surgery, including lung lobectomies (removal of a cancerous section of the lung) using the minimally invasive da Vinci® Surgical System. Patients lose less blood, go home sooner and recover faster than those having traditional surgeries. Your doctor will help you determine if you qualify.
Additionally, image-guided tumor ablation is a safe and effective treatment than can shrink or eliminate tumors by destroying them with heat or cold, Interventional radiologist Dr. Damian Dupuy is a pioneer in this specialized medical field
Support Services
Cape Cod Healthcare offers a full range of support services for cancer patients and their families, including counseling, education, financial and insurance information, and networking. We will be your partner as you navigate cancer.
Learn More
The American Cancer Society provides in-depth information about lung cancer.
