Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer - Diagnostic Tests

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Biomarkers. Biologic markers, called biomarkers, are high levels of substances that are released by tumors and indicate the presence of specific cancers. Biomarkers can be found in sputum, blood, and tissue samples. They can include:

• Enzymes
• Hormones
• Amino-acid compounds
• Antigens (identified by antibodies that specifically target them)
• Growth factors
• Other chemicals

A number of these biomarkers are being evaluated alone or in combination as either screening tools or as potential markers for the risk of disease progression.

Other Tests

As part of the doctor's initial examination, patients may have a pulmonary function test and breath analysis to evaluate lung health and capacity. The doctor may also take a complete history of the heart and lungs, because they are often involved in complications following lung cancer surgery.

Review Date: 07/01/2010
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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