Lung cancer

Diagnostic Evaluation

Lung cancer commonly presents with progressive respiratory signs due to airway obstruction, parenchymal masses, or effusions. Imaging is used to identify pulmonary lesions, assess mediastinal involvement, and detect metastasis. CT is most sensitive for small nodules, lymph nodes, and subtle masses. Radiographs are often first-line for screening and detecting overt consolidation or masses. Ultrasound is adjunctive for pleural effusion but not primary lung tissue assessment. MRI is uncommon for lung staging. Nuclear imaging can help in selected metastatic evaluations.