Scottish referral guidelines for suspected cancer: quick reference guide

Lung Cancer

Referral for CXR

• Haemoptysis.
• Unexplained or persistent (i.e. >3 weeks):

• Persistent cervical/supraclavicular lymphadenopathy.
• Features suggesting metastases from lung cancer.

Referral to Chest Physician

• CXR suggestive or suspicious of lung cancer (incl pleural effusion and slow-to-resolve consolidation).
• Persistent haemoptysis in smokers/ex-smokers aged >40 yrs.
• Signs of SVC obstruction.
• Stridor (emergency referral).
• Any of CXR referral list persisting >6 weeks despite normal CXR.

Mesothelioma

Over 45 with history of asbestos exposure and recent onset of chest pain, dyspnoea or unexplained systemic symptoms.