Tests and pathology
What imaging, pathology and molecular tests tell you
Understand the roles of common reports so you can ask more focused questions at your next visit.
Imaging helps show location and extent
CT and other imaging tests provide pictures of the lungs and other parts of the body, helping doctors decide whether further tests are needed. Findings need to be interpreted alongside previous images, symptoms and other tests. A single word in a report is not enough to make a diagnosis.
Pathology reports describe tissue or cells
A pathologist examines a sample and prepares a pathology report. The report usually includes the sample site, collection method and diagnosis, and is an important basis for confirming cancer and planning care. You can ask whether the sample is adequate and whether the diagnosis is clear.
Molecular testing provides additional information
Testing certain genes, proteins and other biomarkers can inform treatment discussions. Not every test result has a corresponding treatment implication. A genetic change in a tumor does not automatically mean an inherited change that can be passed to family members. Keep the complete report and ask your care team to interpret it in context.
Sources and further reading
This article summarizes publicly available information from the organizations below. Follow the links to read the original sources. Inclusion does not imply endorsement of this platform.