How to identify metastases

Metastases to bone often gives breast, thyroid, prostate, kidney tumors, lung, ovarian, gastrointestinal tract, Ewing's sarcoma, melanoma, sarcomas of the soft tissues and many tumors, which revealed no primary lesion. Because metastases do not manifest themselves from time to time for diagnostic purposes is shown holding scintigraphy. In this test the patient is injected into the body of radioactive isotopes, and then scan the skeletal system. Upon detection of suspicious foci of isotope accumulation indicating bone metastases, additionally performed computed tomography (CT) and radiography.

Another favorite place for metastasis is the liver. Therefore, patients with any type cancer regularly shown holding ultrasound. If there is suspicion of a secondary tumor foci, should be more precise diagnostic procedures: a computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

To identify a secondary cancer in the lung shows the radiography of the chest. The most accurate form of diagnosis is computed tomography using contrast material. But if you decide to resort to this diagnostic method, be prepared for the fact that it will need regular follow-up, and it will be paid from your personal funds. The majority of doctors believes that when the radiograph is no reason for CT, so better take advantage of that offers free medicine.

For the detection of brain metastases are shown MRI with contrast. Most often, secondary tumors in the head occur in patients with renal cell carcinoma, breast cancer, lung melanoma.