Non–small cell lung cancer specimens are tested for various mutations, which, if present, can be treated with new targeted molecular therapies. The diagnostic evaluation and treatment of a patient with lung cancer require a team of specialists, including a pulmonologist, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, pathologist, radiologist, and thoracic surgeon. The least invasive method possible should be used. The diagnostic evaluation has three simultaneous steps (tissue diagnosis, staging, and functional evaluation), all of which affect treatment planning and determination of prognosis. If suspicion for lung cancer is high, a diagnostic evaluation is warranted. If a likely alternative diagnosis is not identified, computed tomography and possibly positron emission tomography should be performed.
High-risk patients who present with symptoms should undergo chest radiography. The most common symptoms of lung cancer are cough, dyspnea, hemoptysis, and systemic symptoms such as weight loss and anorexia. Lung cancer is classified histologically into small cell and non–small cell lung cancers.
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