Doing the research
Learn More About Your Diagnosis
If you have lung, chest or esophageal cancer, it’s vitally important to get an expert evaluation and the right advice at the very beginning.
At Baptist MD Anderson, your diagnosis is tailored to you as an individual. If you have been diagnosed by a doctor outside of Baptist MD Anderson, we can provide a second opinion to confirm your diagnosis or proposed treatment plan, and help you explore the best treatment options for your situation.
Diagnosis Lung or Chest Cancer
Chest and lung cancer diagnostic tests may include:
- Thoracic imaging, such as a CT scan or PET scan
- Lung biopsy
- Blood tests
- Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)
- Endoscopy
- Thoracentesis
- Fine needle aspiration
- Bronchoscopy
- Robotic surgery
- Robot-assisted lung biopsy
Diagnosing Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer diagnostic tests may include:
- Endoscopy
- PET scan
- Esophageal biopsy
- CT scan
- Endoscopic ultrasound
- Laparoscopy
DIAGNOSING LUNG NODULES
About Robot-Assisted Bronchoscopy
Robot-assisted bronchoscopy allows physicians to view and biopsy small nodules in the periphery of the lungs, which helps diagnose and treat lung cancer at its smallest and earliest stage.
Lung, chest & esophageal cancer
What We Look For
We use a variety of tests to identify and diagnose lung, chest and esophageal cancer, and to determine if cancer cells have spread to other areas of the body.
After testing, your Baptist MD Anderson physician or team member will share your test results as soon as possible and answer any questions you have.
If you are diagnosed with cancer, your doctor will thoroughly explain the treatment options for your unique situation and help you decide on the best plan for you.
In addition, a nurse navigator with specialized training in lung, chest and esophageal cancer will be with you throughout your cancer journey to answer questions, help coordinate care, provide emotional support and guide you every step of the way.
Chest, esophageal & lung cancer
Staging
Identifying the stage (or extent) of your cancer can help your doctor determine the best course of treatment for your situation. During your diagnosis, several tests are usually done to determine the specific stage of a lung, chest or esophageal cancer.
Lung Cancer Staging: Non-small cell lung cancer has five stages: stage 0 to stage 4, with various subcategories to further refine the treatment recommendations. Non-small cell lung cancer can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, or other novel or experimental therapies. Small cell lung cancer is broken down into only two stages: limited stage and extensive stage.
Esophageal Cancer Staging: The two types of esophageal cancer, adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are each broken down into five stages: stage 0 to stage IV. Once you know the stage of your cancer, you and your doctor can use this information to decide on the best treatment option for you.
Getting the right diagnosis
Second Opinions
A second opinion can be a game-changer for patients. While it is rare for a diagnosis to change from malignant to benign, a second opinion may reveal other information. Our team verifies whether your staging is correct, your tumor size is correct and your overall assessment is correct. All of these factors can affect which treatment options you are offered.
Request an Appointment
If you have any questions, we have you covered. We have nurse navigators available to guide you through every step of your care. Request an appointment or speak to a nurse navigator by phone or online.
Our Location
Thoracic & Lung Cancer Clinic
Within our specialized, multidisciplinary clinics, we bring together our team of experts to care for your mind, body and spirit - all under one roof. Each of our clinics are singularly focused on your specific needs and treatment.
Need Directions? The thoracic and lung cancer clinic is located in the main Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center on Floor 6 of our cancer center.
Find a Cancer Specialist
Our care team brings medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons and other specialists together for each patient.
For whatever step is next,
Baptist MD Anderson is Here for You
Our team of experts are ready to help you navigate the whirlwind of emotions, options and decisions through every aspect of your care.
Prepare for your appointment
See everything you need to know before coming in.
Find a support service
Care for your mental, spiritual health, too.
Billing & insurance
Resources for insurance and financial questions.