What is a common diagnostic tool for metastatic bone disease?

X-rays are indeed a common diagnostic tool for assessing metastatic bone disease. They provide images that can reveal changes in bone structure, such as lesions, fractures, or areas that appear less dense, which may indicate the presence of metastatic cancer.

This imaging technique is typically the first step in evaluating bone abnormalities because it is widely available, cost-effective, and non-invasive. It helps to identify the location and extent of bone involvement, which is crucial for determining the appropriate management and treatment strategies for patients diagnosed with metastatic cancer.

Although other imaging modalities, such as CT scans, may provide more detailed information about bone lesions and their relationship to surrounding structures, X-rays remain a primary diagnostic tool in many clinical settings. Therefore, they play a vital role in the initial assessment of patients suspected to have metastatic bone disease.