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InstaDiag Lung: Accelerating the Diagnosis of Suspected Lung Abnormalities
An abnormal finding in the lung, detected during a CT scan or another test performed at a local facility, may require a prompt specialist evaluation. Launched in 2023, InstaDiag Poumon makes it possible to quickly arrange the necessary consultations and tests to determine the nature of this abnormality. This care pathway is offered through the International Center for Thoracic Cancers, which brings together Gustave Roussy, Marie-Lannelongue Hospital, and Paris Saint-Joseph Hospital.
InstaDiag Lung—What Is It?
InstaDiag Lung is a rapid diagnostic pathway designed for suspicious lung images. It is not a single test, but rather a coordinated process that allows for the scheduling of necessary consultations and tests as soon as the patient’s records are reviewed.
The goal is to minimize delays, waiting times, and the need for patients to travel back and forth between facilities. Some tests can be performed on an outpatient basis. The results are then analyzed to confirm or rule out the suspicion of cancer and to quickly determine the next steps in the patient’s care.
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2023
Launch of the InstaDiag Lung pathway, in collaboration with the International Center for Thoracic Cancers.
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3 partner institutions
The program draws on the expertise of Gustave Roussy, Marie-Lannelongue Hospital, and Paris Saint-Joseph Hospital.
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A case reviewed in advance: The chest imaging report helps assess the patient’s needs and determine whether the InstaDiag Lung pathway is appropriate.
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Pre-examination tests: Tests deemed necessary are scheduled before the first consultation, whenever possible.
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Dedicated coordination: A coordinator serves as the liaison between the patient, the specialists, and the various administrative offices to schedule appointments.
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Prompt referral: Depending on the results, the patient is referred for monitoring, further testing, or specialized care.
The process may include, among other things:
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a bronchoscopy, which allows the inside of the bronchi to be examined;
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transbronchial ultrasound, also known as EBUS, which allows for the examination of certain areas around the bronchi;
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a CT-guided biopsy, which allows a tissue sample to be taken under radiological guidance;
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a biopsy, if a tissue sample is needed to confirm the diagnosis;
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imaging studies, to assess the possible extent of the disease;
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pulmonary or cardiovascular function tests, particularly when surgery or radiation therapy is being considered;
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a review of the case during a multidisciplinary team meeting.
These tests are not routine. They are recommended based on the imaging findings, the location of the abnormality, the patient’s overall condition, and the test results already available. The diagnosis of lung cancer is generally based on the histopathological analysis of a tissue sample, when one can be obtained[1,2].
Who is InstaDiag Lung intended for?
InstaDiag Lung is intended for individuals in whom a highly suspicious lung image was detected during an examination performed at a local medical facility, particularly a chest CT scan. The request can be made directly by the patient or through their doctor.
The main document to submit is the report on the suspicious chest imaging findings. The corresponding images, previous exams, medical reports, current treatments, and relevant medical history can also help the team evaluate the request and schedule appointments.
The case is reviewed by a dedicated coordinator under the supervision of a medical specialist. A pulmonologist from the International Center for Thoracic Cancers can then determine whether the InstaDiag Lung pathway is appropriate for the situation and which tests should be scheduled.
The process may include several steps: a request for care, an initial consultation, an assessment of the condition, a multidisciplinary team meeting, and then a consultation to discuss the diagnosis. Depending on the situation, the first tests may be scheduled as early as the patient’s first visit to the hospital.
After the diagnosis: What's the next step?
Following the evaluation, several scenarios are possible. If the suspicion of cancer is not confirmed, a follow-up appointment with a pulmonologist may be recommended, usually at a private practice. If the results are inconclusive, additional tests may be necessary. If lung, pleural, or mediastinal cancer is confirmed, further care is organized according to the patient’s needs.
Schedule an appointment for InstaDiag Lung
The InstaDiag Lung pathway is intended for individuals with suspicious lung imaging findings who require a rapid specialist evaluation. If your situation meets the criteria for this pathway, you can submit a request for an appointment along with your chest imaging report so that the teams can evaluate your request and prepare the necessary tests.
Bibliography
[1] National Cancer Institute. How Is Lung Cancer Diagnosed?
[2] Haute Autorité de Santé. Bronchopulmonary Cancer: The Care Pathway Must Prioritize Preserving Quality of Life.
[3] Assurance Maladie. Symptoms and Diagnosis of Lung Cancer