The hilar region is where thebronchi, arteries, veins, and nerves enter and exit the lungs.
This is one of the reasons why ordinarychest X-rays can miss lung cancer.
Chest CT scans (with or without contrast) can lead to better visualization of these structures.
Theresa Chiechi / Verywell
Apositron emission tomography (PET) scanis sometimes very helpful if a tumor is suspected.
Both masses and enlarged lymph nodes may be due to cancer or benign causes.
If your healthcare provider notes an abnormality on your exam, further testing will be needed.
Most of the time a biopsy will be needed to obtain a definitive diagnosis.
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