Both small cell and non-small cell lung cancer can spread (metastasize) to other areas of the body, primarily to the brain, bone, liver and adrenal glands. Many times a good discussion with the patient and thorough physical can tell the physician whether there has been spread of the tumor.

Occasionally, when it is difficult to evaluate the patient's history or physical, or when the risk of spread is very high the doctor will order tests to determine whether the tumor has spread to other organs. The CT scan shows the liver, opposite lung and adrenal glands. A CT scan or MRI of the head will show signs of tumor spread to the brain. A bone scan will show tumor spread to the skeleton.  A PET scan is also used to determine if the cancer has spread.