Suspicion
- Suspicion is the time from when you share your symptoms with your family doctor to the time that you
are sent (or referred to) a lung specialist. Suspicion may also result from an emergency room visit. - Your doctor may become suspicious of a lung concern based on symptoms (i.e. coughing up blood,
repeated trouble swallowing, ongoing breathing problems, changes in fingernails and unusual swelling
in the lymph nodes), and may send you for a CT scan to investigate the cause of the symptoms.
Consult with a (GI) Specialist
- Doctor will assess the CT imaging
- If the doctor suspects lung cancer there will be a referral to the OPNP program for a work up with
additional testing
Testing
Some possible tests you may receive:
PET Scan
- A PET scan creates a 3-dimensional computerized picture of the body using an injected sugar solution.
- This test scans the “eyes to the thighs” to look for cells replicating quicker.
Lung Biopsy
- The lung specialist may remove a tissue sample from the abnormal area.
- A bronchoscopy, CT or an ultrasound may be used to look at the abnormal area of the lungs.
MRI of the head
- Radio waves and a powerful magnet linked to a computer are used to create detailed pictures of areas inside the body.
- Screens for other areas of potential concern.
- If MRI is unavailable, then a CT scan will be completed in it’s place.
Pulmonary Function Test
- Abreathing test.
