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Non Small Cell Lung Cancer Clinical Trials & Other Tests to Know
Non small cell lung cancer clinical trials are among the most effective ways to research the condition in question. With the help of volunteers, medical professionals can test different drugs and therapies, measuring their effectiveness and side effects, not to mention collect data as needed. These trials are held across the country and abroad, aiding research over time. However, these are only a small section of the tests that can be done to not only help diagnose patients but recommend the best steps to take moving forward. Here is what should be known about tests in regard to lung cancer.

Clinical Trials – When discussing research, as mentioned earlier, lung cancer clinical trials can’t be ignored. With the efforts of medical professionals, trials collect data, whether concerning drugs that have yet to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration or therapies that, in theory, can aid patients. Speaking of patients, volunteers can become involved, though eligibility will vary from person to person. Trials may be looking for patients that are at a certain stage of their cancer or have a certain biomarker status, just to name a few examples. Nonetheless, the work that’s done in clinical trials can’t be overlooked.

Examination of Medical History – Outside of ongoing and new clinical trials for lung cancer , medical history examination must be considered. When a doctor first works with a patient, the former will want to know about the latter’s medical history. One of the reasons for this is that they may have a history of lung cancer in their family, which is a risk factor. A doctor may also ask about their diet, exercise, or habits such as smoking, since these can play into one’s lung cancer risk, albeit at different levels. When this data is collected, a doctor will have a better understanding of the steps that should be taken and recommendations to be made.

Bone Scans – In certain cases, cancer may have traveled to the bones. To determine whether this was the case, a bone scan may be conducted. This entails the use of a low-level radioactive material that’s brought into the blood. What this does, in theory, is show if one’s cancer has made its way into the bones. Keep in mind that this is a relatively simple test compared to some of the ones that we will discuss later. However, if there is any concern that one’s cancer has spread, a bone scan can offer additional insight.

X-Rays – Imaging is commonplace, not only in medical offices but non small cell lung cancer stage 4 clinical trials and the like. The reason for this is that x-rays can check the body, shedding light on any abnormalities that may exist. A chest x-ray focuses on major organs in the body, including the lungs, to take a deeper look into abnormal areas. If the doctor sees anything that seems out of the norm, they’re likely to recommend further tests, which can provide further context in regard to the patient’s health.

Computed Tomography Scans – An x-ray takes only 1 or 2 general pictures of a certain area of the body. While this can provide information, it doesn’t offer as much insight as a computed tomography scan. Also known as a CT scan, this takes several cross-sectional images. From there, a computer takes the images and combines them to provide a broad overview of one’s health status. non small cell lung cancer clinical trials is a CT scan able to better detect tumors in the lungs but further context, such as the size and locations of said tumors, can be provided as well. When one is recommended clinical trial drugs for lung cancer , such detailed information is critical.

Positron Emission Tomography Scans – Finally, a PET scan is often combined with a CT scan, though the former can be conducted on its own if needed. clinical trials for stage 4 non small cell lung cancer involves the use of fludeoxyglucose, which is a form of slightly radioactive sugar. This procedure entails the injection of FDG in the blood, being collected in the cancerous cells of the body. What this does, in theory, is provide context as to where one’s cancer may spread. After all, a screening may not accurately showcase where cancerous cells have traveled in the body. This is especially useful if said cancer traveled to vital organs like the liver or kidneys. Depending on one’s lung cancer severity, a PET/CT scan combination may be recommended.

The tests described here are a testament to the years of research done to help others better understand lung cancer. From clinical trials to body scans, there are many ways that medical professionals can learn about cancer and, more importantly, learn about approaches to help afflicted individuals. Lung cancer is a serious disease, being one of the top five most common forms of cancer in the world today. Needless to say, methods such as the ones detailed here are critical.
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