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There are several tests doctors can use to diagnose lung cancer.

A chest X-ray takes pictures of your lungs. Your doctor can then see if there are signs of lung cancer or another illness. If your doctor thinks you might have lung cancer, this is usually the first test you'll have.

If you have an abnormal chest X-ray, your doctor will probably order a CT scan of your chest for a closer look. A CT scan is a type of X-ray that uses a computer to get a more detailed picture of your lungs.

X-rays and CT scans can show if there is anything abnormal about your lungs. But they can't tell the difference between harmless (benign) lumps and cancerous (malignant) lumps. To find out if you have cancer for sure, you need to have a biopsy.

If you have a bronchoscopy, a flexible tube is passed into your lungs through your nose or mouth. The tube has a tiny camera on the end that lets your doctor look inside your lungs.

Your doctor can also use the tube to remove small samples of cells from inside your lungs. These samples are called biopsies. The samples are then looked at in a laboratory to find out whether you have cancer. If the cells are cancerous, it's possible to see what type of cancer you have.

If you are diagnosed with lung cancer, you'll need more tests to see if your cancer has spread to other parts of your body. One kind of test is a bone scan, an X-ray that shows whether the cancer has spread to your bones. Another test you will need is a CT scan of your brain or your abdomen (the part of your body below your chest).

When your doctor has all the results of your tests, he or she can tell you whether you have lung cancer. If you have lung cancer, your doctor will also be able to tell you how advanced it is. This is called staging your cancer.

Your doctor will also grade your cancer. This means finding out what your cancer looks like under a microscope. To find out more, see What grade is your lung cancer?

Knowing the stage and grade will help decide what treatment is best for you.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.