How can the doctor tell if my lung cancer has metastasized?

Metastasis is the spread of cancer from its original location to other parts of the body. Cancer can metastasize when cells from the original tumor break off and travel through the bloodstream or the lymphatic system to distant sites of the body. During diagnosis and staging of lung cancer, the lymph nodes in the lungs and in the chest cavity can be biopsied to determine if the cancer has spread. Additional imaging that is used to determine metastases from lung cancer include CT scan, PET scan, and MRI. You can find more information on metastasis here: https://lungcancer.net/complications-related-conditions-metastasis

Hi, thank you for reaching out! Metastasis can be checked for by taking a biopsy of the lymph nodes in the lungs and chest cavity. This is typically done upon initial diagnosis and staging. Additionally, scans such as a CT scan, PET/CT scan, and/or MRI can be used to look for metastasis as well. Here is some more information about it from our site: https://lungcancer.net/complications-related-conditions-metastasis. Have you spoken with your doctor about any concerns you may have about your lung cancer metastasizing? He/she may be able to clarify any questions for you. Again, thank you for reaching out! We are glad you're a part of our community! Take care, Christina, LungCancer.net Team