Thursday, November 20, 2008 - 4:31PM EST

Diagnosis of Small Cell Lung Cancer

Laboratory Evaluation for Small Cell Lung Cancer

The following laboratory tests are usually performed for patients with suspected lung cancer:

  • Complete blood count (CBC)
  • Measurement of electrolyte levels
  • Measurement of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine levels - this test is a measurement of how well the kidneys are functioning
  • Liver function tests
  • Measurement of lactate dehydrogenase levels - The enzyme, lactate dehydrogenase, may be elevated in the bloodstream of patients with certain types of cancers including lung cancer.