Diagnostic tools

Our team of lung cancer experts uses sophisticated technology to detect tumors deep inside the lungs. These tools help our team develop a personalized treatment plan for each patient.  

Throughout your lung cancer treatment, we use imaging and laboratory tests to track the size of the tumors, monitor your response to treatment and modify your treatment if needed.

Among many others, City of Hope offers the following diagnostic evaluations to lung cancer patients.

Four-day lung nodule diagnosis

City of Hope lung cancer care teams have developed a diagnostic program designed to determine results in as few as four days after your initial consultation. 

Advanced genomic testing

Genomic testing examines a tumor on a genetic level to look for the DNA alterations that are driving the cancer's growth. By identifying the mutations that occur in a cancer cell's genome, we may be able to understand what caused the tumor and tailor treatment based on these findings.

Autofluorescence bronchoscopy (blue-light bronchoscopy)

This technology allows physicians to identify cancerous cells in your bronchial tubes that may not be visible under white-light examination. The doctor can also remove a small sample of abnormal tissue for further analysis.

Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)

An EBUS uses ultrasound guidance to detect cancerous cells in the lymph nodes of your chest. EBUS is a less invasive alternative to a mediastinoscopy, a surgical procedure requiring a series of incisions in your chest under general anesthesia.

CT scan

A CT scan is a common tool for the screening, diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. A CT scan is an X-ray procedure that uses a computer to produce three-dimensional, cross-sectional images of the inside of your body. CT scans show the anatomy of your lungs and surrounding tissues, which our doctors use to diagnose and monitor tumor growth.

PET/CT scan

A PET/CT scan for lung cancer creates detailed, computerized pictures of your lung, allowing your doctors to see where the healthy lung tissue ends and the tumor begins. Combining PET/CT technology helps our doctors pinpoint tumors, so that we may properly diagnose and stage the disease.