Diagnosis
Catching lung cancer early often allows for a higher likelihood of successful treatment. Some early cancers may have signs and symptoms that can be noticed, but that is not always the case.
Lung Nodules
A lung nodule is a small (≤ 3 cm) abnormal area that is sometimes found during a CT scan of the chest and/or abdomen.
Most lung nodules seen on CT scans are not cancer. They are more often the result of old infections, scar tissue, or other causes. But tests are often needed to be sure a nodule is not cancer.
Most often, the next step is to get a repeat CT scan to see if the nodule is growing over time. The time between scans might range anywhere from a few months to a year, depending on how likely your doctor thinks that the nodule could be cancer. Eisenhower Health, through it's Lung Cancer Screening program offers monitoring of lung nodules found during screening.
Technology
Eisenhower Health is committed to provide patient with state-of-the-art technology to aide in diagnosing lung cancer. We have invested in these technologies to provide the clearest imaging possible for diagnosis of lung cancer.
Imaging diagnostics:
- DynaCAD Lung imaging
- Riverrain lung imaging technology
Interventional Pulmonology
Interventional Pulmonology at Eisenhower Health is an important part of the multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing and treating the complexities of lung cancer. By utilizing minimally invasive techniques, interventional pulmonologists can provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments while minimizing discomfort and improving outcomes for our patients. It is often an interventional pulmonologist that will diagnose a patient's lung cancer through a biopsy.
If you are diagnosed with lung cancer:
You will be referred to an oncologist who will review your imaging and with you, develop a course of treatment. Our Nurse Navigator, will partner with you as you being your treatment.
