What tests are needed in the work-up of lung cancer?

It is my usual and customary practice to order a complete blood count and a panel of blood chemistry tests, as well as a blood level of carcinoembryonic agent (CEA).

A chest x-ray and a computerized tomogram (CT) of the chest are important.

Arterial blood gases, pulmonary function tests and an electrocardiogram (ECG) need to be done.

This is the basic workup.

Depending on the results of the history and physical examination and the basic workup, other tests may be indicated, including

1. magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain
2. bone scan
3. exercise pulmonary function testing
4. quantitative ventilation-perfusion lung scan
5. treadmill exersize test
6. doppler echocardiogram
7. carotid doppler ultrasound

   CT scan of a lung cancer CT scan of a lung cancer