Diagnosis and Staging

Diagnosis. Seeking the opinion of a thoracic surgeon experienced in mediastinal tumors—such as the surgeons at The Lacks Cancer Center—is essential to proper diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Many of these tumors are found on routine chest x-rays, as most patients exhibit no noticeable symptoms. It is imperative that they are examined further with computerized tomography (CT scan) or an MRI. Once a mediastinal tumor has been identified through CT scan or MRI, and the patient is thoroughly evaluated by a thoracic surgeon, a biopsy (tissue sample) to specifically classify the type of tumor may be warranted. There are three main methods used to perform a biopsy:

• Percutaneous Biopsy. A procedure performed by a radiologist under CT Scan guidance. The patient is awake during the procedure while a small needle is placed between the ribs and a small sample of the mass is taken.
• Thorascopic Mediastinal Biopsy. A small camera, the size of a pencil, is placed between the ribs so mass can be directly examined and a small piece removed for examination.
• Open Mediastinal Biopsy (Chamberlain Procedure). A small incision is made next to the sternum (breast bone) and a small piece removed for examination.

To schedule advanced diagnostic services, or to join our Multidisciplinary Lung Clinic, ask your primary care physician for a referral or make a self-referral by calling 1-877-LACKS-MI or 616-752-LACK(S).