Imaging and Scopes
Imaging plays an important role in determining how extensive the cancer is. During imaging and scopes the following are studied
- Exact location of the primary tumor (primary site and subsite)
- Tumor size
- Spread to adjacent tissues or organs
- Regional lymph node involvement
- Sites of distant metastases (including distant lymph nodes)
| Modality | Utility |
|---|---|
| Chest X-ray | A chest X-ray is usually the first study that will be done when lung cancer is suspected, especially if a patient has presented with symptoms. If lung cancer is suspected, a CT scan or PET scan will be done. |
| Chest Computed Tomography (Helical CT) | More accurate diagnostic and staging tool. |
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) | Evaluation of malignancy extending into adjacent structures. |
| Positron Emission Tomography (PET)/CT | PET scans can be used as both a diagnostic tool and a staging stool. They are often done in conjunction with CT scans to provide a more comprehensive view of the lungs. |
| Bronchoscopy | Key procedure used in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. The scope allows examination of the lungs and airway to evaluate the extent of disease, including lymph nodes. A bronchoscopy is frequently used to get a tissue sample to determine the histology. Bronchoscopy can also be used to remove tumors that are blocking the windpipe, cauterize bleeding tumors, or place stents to keep the windpipe opened. This procedure is not recorded as treatment. It is treating the symptoms, not the cancer. |
| Mediastinoscopy | A procedure in which a mediastinoscopy is used to examine the organs in the area between the lungs and nearby lymph nodes. A mediastinoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and a lens for viewing. It may also have a tool to remove tissue to be checked under a microscope for signs of disease. |
See Diagnostic Tests | SEER Training website for more information on imaging.
Document imaging details in NAACCR Item #2530: Text-Dx Proc-X-ray/scan
Document results of Scopes in NAACCR Item #2540: Text-Dx Proc-Scopes
Updated: April 8, 2026
Suggested Citation
SEER Training Modules: Imaging and Scopes. U.S. National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute. Cited 12 April 2026. Available from: https://training.seer.cancer.gov.