Imaging’s Contribution to Staging Thoracic Tumors

The imaging, biopsies, and other examinations which comprise a “complete” initial staging vary by tumor type, and indeed, sometimes vary from patient to patient who have the same tumor type. The components of a “standard” initial staging for each individual tumor type will be discussed in subsequent chapters. Below are the general principles that guide the use of imaging in assessing tumor stage and determining when additional workup is needed…