Lung cancer tumour

A scan may show a mass or nodule, but imaging alone cannot describe every feature of a tumour. Doctors may use a biopsy to examine cells, scans to assess nearby structures and tests to look for spread elsewhere. The report may describe the tumour’s position, size, cell type and molecular features. These details help the team judge whether surgery, radiotherapy, medicines, or a combination is appropriate.

Keep copies of scan and pathology reports and ask who will coordinate your results. Ask whether the sample is sufficient for molecular testing and staging. Treatment can depend on whether the tumour can be removed, whether lymph nodes or other organs are involved, and your breathing reserve. A plan may include a lung operation, radiotherapy, drug treatment or palliative care for symptom relief.

Get urgent medical help for severe breathlessness, coughing up a large amount of blood, fainting, new confusion, or sudden weakness. Tell the team quickly about worsening chest pain, persistent fever or a major change in voice. A hoarse voice can have several causes, so it should be assessed rather than assumed to be caused by the tumour.

What type of tumour is shown by the biopsy? Has it spread beyond the lung? Is molecular testing appropriate? What is the aim of each proposed treatment? Should I meet a surgeon, radiotherapy specialist or palliative-care team?