Lung cancer pathology: what to know

A pathologist examines material from a biopsy, bronchoscopy, needle sample, or operation. The report may describe whether cancer cells are present, the tumour category, how the cells look, and whether the sample is adequate for further testing. Terms may include non-small cell or small cell lung cancer, with more specific subtypes in some reports.

Pathology is different from staging. Staging combines the pathology with scans, examination, and other findings to describe where the cancer is and how it may affect treatment choices. A report can be amended when additional tests are completed.

Ask the clinician to explain unfamiliar terms and which findings affect your treatment options. Ask whether the sample needs biomarker or [Genomic Tumour Profiling](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/genomic-tumour-profiling/), and when the full report is expected. Keep a copy of the report and note which result is confirmed versus still pending.

Treatment may involve [Chemotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/chemotherapy/), [Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/radiotherapy/), surgery such as [Lung Lobectomy](/treatments/surgical-oncology/lung-lobectomy/), or another approach. The pathology result is one part of the decision.

Pathology itself is not an emergency, but seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, coughing up significant blood, fainting, new confusion, or sudden weakness. Contact the team promptly if a biopsy site becomes increasingly painful, swollen, red, or associated with fever, or if you are unsure how to manage a new symptom after the procedure.

Ask what type of lung cancer the sample indicates, whether the result is complete, which biomarkers were tested, how pathology relates to staging, and which treatment decisions depend on the findings. Ask when to expect the next appointment and who can clarify the report.