[b]Irving, TX[/b] – Lung cancer diagnosis starts with a visit to the doctor who will analyze the symptoms and carry out a physical examination. Based on the information gathered, the doctor may have to refer the patient to a specialist or order tests to affirm lung cancer or any other health issues. It is important to have these tests to help plan for the appropriate treatment.

"Patients with increased lung cancer risks should consider taking lung cancer screening annually," said Dr. Mackey.“Especially those above 55 years old who’ve been heavy smokers for many years. Make sure you discuss with your doctor about your lung cancer risk so that together you can determine if lung cancer screening is appropriate for you. “

Lung cancer symptoms can be symptomatic of different issues other than lung cancer, and that's why they require a doctor's assessment. Your doctor will determine if your symptoms require additional testing. Some tests that may be recommended are:

• [b]Bronchoscopy[/b] - A bronchoscope is used to remove tissue or cell samples or examine the lungs. It is a thin tube that is inserted into the lungs through the mouth or nose. Once the bronchoscope is in place, the doctor can examine the lungs or remove cell or tissue samples.
• [b]Thoracotomy[/b] - A thoracotomy is when a surgeon makes an incision in the chest to remove tissue and lymph nodes for testing. It is a more invasive tool for diagnosis.
• [b]Thoracoscopy[/b] – It is when a surgeon makes several small incisions in the back and chest to examine the lungs and other connected tissues.
• [b]Mediastinoscopy[/b] – This is when an incision is made at the top of the breastbone and a thin, lighted tube inserted inside the incision to take lymph node samples and tissues or to examine the lungs.
• [b]Sputum Cytology[/b] - This is a procedure carried out in the lab to examine the thick fluid (sputum) that is coughed up from the lungs.
• The other tests carried out for lung cancer include a physical exam, X-ray, CT scan, fine needle aspiration and thoracentesis. The tests are carried out to either check for evidence of tumors or fluids in the lungs.

"The type of cancer will determine the treatment to be administered to the patient," continued Dr. Mackey. "This is why it is important to assess and determine the exact type of cancer a patient has before creating any treatment plan."

[b]About Las Colinas Cancer Center[/b]

Las Colinas Cancer Center, a Choice Cancer Care Treatment Center, is committed to providing the personalized, compassionate treatment that can make all the difference in cancer care. Our state-of-the-art facility, located in North Texas, offers those battling cancer and blood disorders a safe haven where they can find professional care from some of the nation’s most experienced oncology specialists in a supportive, caring environment with an integrated approach to treatment.