Lung Cancer Diagnosis

Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Evaluation in London

My approach combines cutting-edge technology with a thorough evaluation to ensure the best possible care for each patient.

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Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Evaluation

Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective lung cancer treatment, and my clinic in London offers comprehensive diagnostic services led by an expert thoracic surgeon. My approach combines cutting-edge technology with a thorough evaluation to ensure the best possible care for each patient.

Lung Cancer Diagnosis in London

Comprehensive Assessment

The diagnostic process begins with a detailed consultation where we discuss your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. Our goal is to understand your condition fully, ensuring that any underlying issues are identified and addressed. Common symptoms of lung cancer may include a persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss. If these are present, further investigation is necessary. Many tests can be done on the same day of the consultation.

I utilize state-of-the-art imaging technology to visualise the lungs and detect abnormalities:

  • CT Scan (Computed Tomography): A high-resolution scan that provides detailed images of the lungs, helping to identify tumours, masses, and other changes in lung tissue.
  • PET-CT Scan (Positron Emission Tomography): A combination of CT and PET imaging that helps determine the cancer stage by showing how active the tumor cells are.
  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): We use MRI to get detailed images of soft tissues and organs for specific cases, especially where cancer may have spread.

If imaging suggests a suspicious area, a biopsy is often required to confirm the presence of cancer. I use minimally invasive techniques to obtain tissue samples safely and accurately:

  • Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS): A non-invasive procedure using an ultrasound-guided bronchoscope to take tissue samples from lymph nodes or masses in the lungs.
  • Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS): A minimally invasive surgical technique that allows us to view the lung and take biopsies using a small camera and instruments inserted through small incisions in the chest.
  • CT-Guided Needle Biopsy: For accessible tumours, we may use a CT scan to guide a needle directly into the suspicious area to collect a sample.

Once a diagnosis is confirmed, determining the stage of lung cancer is essential for planning the most effective treatment. Staging is based on the size of the tumour, its location, and whether it has spread to lymph nodes or other organs. This process helps guide our multidisciplinary team in developing a personalised treatment plan that may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination of therapies.

My lung cancer diagnosis and evaluation process is supported by a team of specialists, including radiologists, pathologists, and oncologists, who collaborate to ensure that every aspect of your care is covered. Together, we provide a complete and thorough diagnosis, giving you the clarity and confidence to proceed with the proper treatment.

I understand that the diagnosis process can be overwhelming, so I am here to support you every step of the way. My team is dedicated to answering your questions, explaining each procedure, and helping you feel empowered throughout your treatment journey.

If you are experiencing symptoms or need a second opinion, schedule a consultation with our expert thoracic surgeon today. Early detection saves lives, and we are here to help you take the next step in your care.

Lung cancer is typically diagnosed using chest X-rays, CT scans, PET scans, and biopsies. These tests help detect abnormal growths, determine their size and location, and confirm if they are cancerous.

A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample from the lung or surrounding area to examine under a microscope for cancer cells. It can be done through various methods, including bronchoscopy, needle biopsy, or surgical biopsy.

A CT scan creates detailed images of the lungs and chest, allowing doctors to identify suspicious areas or tumors that might not show up on an X-ray. It’s commonly used for both diagnosis and staging of lung cancer.

Lung cancer screening is recommended for individuals at high risk, such as current or former smokers aged 50-80 with a significant smoking history or those with a family history of lung cancer. Low-dose CT screening is commonly used for early detection.

Yes, with regular screening, especially using low-dose CT scans, lung cancer can often be detected in its early stages when it is most treatable, even before symptoms appear.

Early symptoms of lung cancer may include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, shortness of breath, hoarseness, and unexplained weight loss. If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor for evaluation.

Once lung cancer is diagnosed, additional tests, such as a PET scan or MRI, may be ordered to determine the stage of the cancer. Based on this information, a personalized treatment plan will be developed by your healthcare team.

Low-dose CT scans are currently the most effective method for early detection of lung cancer, reducing the risk of death in high-risk patients by catching the disease before it progresses. However, like any test, false positives or negatives can occur.

Biopsy results typically take a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of the case. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and recommend the next steps for treatment or further testing.

During a low-dose CT screening, you will lie on a table that slides through a CT scanner. The process is painless and takes about 10-15 minutes. No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the scan.

If you have more questions about lung cancer diagnosis or wish to schedule a screening, please contact us today for more information.