Diagnostic method | sensitivity | specificity | Indication | Comments |
Sputum cytology | Central 71% Peripheral <50% | 99% | Central and hemoptysis | Non-invasive |
Thoracentesis | 80% | >90% | Pleural effusion | - |
Excisional biopsy | - | - | Palpable lymphadenopathy | - |
Flexible bronchoscopy | Central tumors 88% | 90% | Central or peripheral tumor | Transbronchial inspiration increases sensitivity in peripheral tumors |
Transthoracic needle aspiration | Peripheral tumors 90% | 97% | Peripheral tumor in non-surgical patients is inconclusive | Transbronchial inspiration increases sensitivity in peripheral tumors |
Video-assisted thoracotomy | - | - | Small peripheral tumors (<2 cm in diameter) | Do not need thoracotomy |
Thoracotomy | - | - | It cleans resectable tumors | Treatment is necessary |