Having tests
Not all symptoms are caused by cancer. Your GP or specialist will send you for tests to check what is causing your symptoms.
Your doctors should explain why you are having the tests and what they involve.
What you need to know
Reasons for tests
Your GP will examine you and send you for tests before you see a specialist. These initial tests are to see if your symptoms are caused by cancer or by something else.
If you do have a cancer, the specialist you see will probably send you for tests to find out more about it. This includes finding out the type of cells the cancer started in and whether it has spread.
Tests for lung cancer
Initial tests include:
- blood test
- chest X-ray
- CT scan.
Further tests may include:
- sputum cytology
- bronchoscopy
- endobronchial ultrasound
- MRI scan
- PET scan
- bone scan
- brain scan
- mediastinoscopy
- thoracotomy.
You may also have a breathing test to see how well your lungs are working. You will not need all of the tests listed.
Biopsies for lung cancer
A biopsy is when a doctor removes a small piece of the lump or area that might be cancer. A specialist doctor called a pathologist looks at the piece under a microscope to see if it is a cancer, and get information about the cells in it.
Biopsies are often taken during a:
- bronchoscopy
- endobronchial ultrasound
- mediastinoscopy
- thoracotomy
- or under CT or ultrasound guidance.
Mutation testing in lung cancer
There are some gene mutations that are found in many non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC). They include:
- KRAS
- EGFR
- ALK
- ROS1
Samples of cancer tissue can be tested for these mutations. This can be used in treatment planning, as targeted therapies have been shown to be effective in treating some NSCLC with EFGR, ALK and ROS1 gene mutations.
Other resources we recommend
What to ask or talk about
Preparing for tests
Going for tests can make some people nervous, but knowing what to expect can help.
Your GP or specialist should tell you why you need each test and what it involves. Use our checklists to help you know what to ask.
Sometimes you need to contact the place where you are having the test for more information. This can include how to prepare for the test, how much it will cost and what you will get back from Medicare and your private health fund.
Ask how long it will take before you hear the results of the test.
Checklists
Next steps
Getting test results
It is normal to feel anxious when you are waiting for test results.
Your GP or specialist should tell you when the results will be ready and how you will find out about them. Usually you need to make an appointment to get the results.
It is a good idea to take someone with you when you go for this appointment.
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Cancer Council Mon-Fri 9am-5pm13 11 20
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Lung Foundation Australia1800 654 301
