What is sputum cytology?
Cells that are coughed up from the lungs or breathing tubes can be examined under a microscope to see if they contain cancer. This procedure is called sputum cytology. In some cases, sputum cytology can reveal lung cancers in patients with normal X-rays or can determine the type of lung cancer. Because it cannot pinpoint the tumor’s location, a positive sputum cytology test is usually followed by further tests. What does “staging” mean? Staging is a process used by physicians to describe how advanced the cancer is. Staging assists the physician in determining a prognosis (what is likely to happen to the person because of the cancer). Knowing the stage helps the physician in planning treatment and evaluating the results. Different staging systems are used for different types of cancer.. LIVING WITH LUNG CANCER When diagnosed with lung cancer, it can be difficult to take in all the information that there is available regarding your condition and the treatments that can be used. This shor
