HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

What Causes Cough And Upper Right Back Pain With Family History Of Lung Cancer?

Posted on Tue, 28 Jul 2015

Question: I have had a cough and right shoulder and upper right back pain for about a month. I read that it could be lung cancer. Both of my parents were heavy smokers in the home I grew up n. I also smoked for 9 years on and off. My dad and all his brothers died of lung cancer. I am going to see my doctor on Monday- what tests can she do to determine if it's lung cancer or not?

Answered by Dr. Pavan Kumar Gupta (55 minutes later)

Brief answer.....the most primary investigation is X ray chest.
Detailed answer...
Hello,
Thanks for the query.
I have read your query and understand your concern,since there is a strong family history of lung cancers in your family.
The most basic test which should be performed is a plain X ray chest.It can reveal mass or presence of nodule.Even a CT chest can be performed which can reveal very small lesions in the lungs which remain undetected by X ray chest.
If you are having cough,then your sputum can be checked for presence of malignant cells under the microscope.
In case of any mass or nodule seen,it can be biopsied where a small tissue is taken and examined under the microscope.
I hope it helps however you are most welcome to revert to me for any further query.
Best of luck
Thanks

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Neel Kudchadkar