Lung metastases are not the same as lung cancer. They originate from another tumor and may therefore consist of tissue different from that of lung cancer. Lung metastases therefore require a different treatment.
Usually, lung metastases are present initially without causing any additional symptoms or discomfort. For this reason, they are often discovered by chance—for example, during an X-ray at a hospital.
Occasionally, however, the metastases may manifest as a persistent cough (with blood) or pneumonia.
In most cases, doctors discover lung metastases only by chance, such as during a chest X-ray as part of a follow-up examination.
Computed tomography (CT) scans allow for much better and earlier detection of lung metastases.
Occasionally, in addition to these imaging tests, a tissue biopsy—e.g., via bronchoscopy—is necessary. This allows doctors to carefully plan treatment and, if necessary, consider surgery.
Lung metastases are often found incidentally during a chest X-ray © therads | AdobeStock
The treatment of lung metastases can involve
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For many patients, chemotherapy or radiation therapy is necessary in addition to surgery.
Planning the treatment requires an interdisciplinary team of experts. This team usually consists of
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Surgical removal of the metastases at the hospital is the most effective way to treat them. Unfortunately, surgical removal of lung metastases is only possible in about one-third of patients.
Various tests are conducted prior to surgery. The location and number of metastases play a major role in determining whether and how surgery can be performed. Experts in thoracic surgery should be consulted to perform this procedure.
If it is not possible to treat the lung metastases surgically, chemotherapy is usually prescribed. This form of therapy is intended to halt the progression of the disease and improve the patient’s quality of life. Radiation therapy is generally used to shrink a tumor before surgery or to destroy any remaining tumor tissue afterward.
What are lung metastases?
Lung metastases are secondary tumors that form in the lungs from a malignant primary tumor. These metastases develop when tumor cells spread through blood vessels or lymphatic channels. Lung metastases are not a separate tumor disease, but rather secondary tumors originating from another tumor outside the lungs.
What symptoms do lung metastases cause?
Many patients with lung metastases initially have no symptoms. Typical symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, or chest pain. Metastases in the lungs are often not detected until the disease has reached an advanced stage.
How are lung metastases diagnosed?
The diagnosis is usually made using CT (computed tomography) or other radiological imaging techniques. Biopsies, positron emission tomography (PET), or staging tests may also be necessary. A pulmonary function test also helps in planning a potential surgery.
What treatment options are available for lung metastases?
The treatment of lung metastases depends on the number and size of the metastases, their location, and the patient’s overall condition. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, radiation targeting the lung metastases, or minimally invasive procedures such as radiofrequency ablation. In thoracic surgery, lung metastases may be surgically removable.
When is surgery recommended for lung metastases?
Surgery is primarily considered when there are only a few lung metastases and no other metastases outside the lung. The goal of surgical removal is the complete resection of the metastasis while preserving lung function as much as possible. The decision is made through an interdisciplinary approach involving oncologists, radiologists, and thoracic surgeons.
