Breath analysis, using mainly the nanoarray, may serve as a surrogate marker for the response to systemic therapy in lung cancer. As a monitoring tool, it can provide the oncologist with a quick bedside method of identifying a lack of response to an anticancer treatment. This may allow quicker recognition than does the current RECIST analysis. Early recognition of treatment failure could improve patient care.

In lung cancer, the prognosis and treatment options depend directly on tumor size and its spread at the time of diagnosis. There is therefore a constant search for methods that will allow early detection of cancerous lung nodules. With advancing imaging technology and implantation of screening routines in high-risk populations by low-dose computerized tomography, a significant increase in the number of diagnosed small peripheral lesions can be expected. While early detection of small cancerous lesions carries the benefit of wider treatment options and better prognosis, the process of obtaining a biopsy to confirm a cancerous tissue is not free of complications and bears inconveniences and stress to the patient. This review discusses the potential use of exhaled breath analysis as a simple, noninvasive tool for early detection of lung cancer and characterization of suspicious lung nodules.

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