Tests for Lung Mets

Metastatic tumors in the lungs are tumors that developed at other sites and spread via the blood stream to the lungs. Common tumors that metastasize to the lungs include bladder cancer,  breast cancer, colorectal cancer, kidney cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, and prostate cancer.  However, almost any cancer has the capacity to spread to the lungs.

Symptoms

  • Bloody sputum
  • Cough
  • Rib cage pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Weakness
  • Weight loss

Note: Sometimes, there are no symptoms.

Exams and Tests

  • Bronchoscopy
  • Chest CT scan
  • Chest x-ray
  • Cytologic studies of pleural fluid or sputum
  • Pulmonary function test
  • Lung needle biopsy
  • Surgical lung biopsy