Detection of disseminated tumor cells in mediastinoscopic biopsies could improve staging prior to resection and might be helpful concerning indications for neoadjuvant therapy regimens.

• 在纵膈镜活检的淋巴结组织中检测扩散的肿瘤细胞能在手术前提高肿瘤分期并为下一步的治疗提供帮助。