There are many tests and exams used to diagnose lung cancer. Not all tests are necessary or appropriate and their use depends on the medical history and habits of each patient.

Questions may first be asked by medical professional, such as: Has the patient smoked? How much and for how long? Have people around the patient smoked? Where have the patient lived and worked, what kind of work has the patient done? What is the family history of cancer? What symptoms has the patient noticed and for how long?

Imaging studies:

• Chest X-ray
• CT scan: they take many detailed x-rays that are blended together by a computer and gives very accurate information.

Sputum analysis (analyzing the phlegm you cough up)

Blood tests

Biopsy :

• Bronchoscopy : a thin, flexible tube is passed through the mouth or nose and into the lungs. If the bronchoscope finds a tumour, it can cut off a small piece of it and analysis (usually done by a pathologist) are performed on it.
• Needle biopsy: The needle collects a small piece of tumour from the chest.
• Mediastinoscopy: This test is to determine if the cancer has spread to any of your lymph nodes (glands of the body's lymphatic system). Through a small cut in the neck, a thin tube is inserted. The tube collects fluid samples and biopsies (pieces of tissue) from the lymph nodes near your throat and lungs. The samples are tested (usually by a pathologist) for cancerous cells.

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