After it was confirmed by having a biopsy of the mass in my kidney that it was cancer and subsequently having my kidney removed, I continue to have a CT scan with contrast every three months to see if the cancer has spread. I have learned that CT scans are the best way to see changes in the kidney and the area it most likely spreads (lungs). When they thought they saw something on my liver, I had an MRI done with contrast. It seems to me that depending on where and what they are looking for, depends on the scan they order. X-rays are not definitive compared to a CT. This is simply my understanding.

It is conceivable that they will do all the tests. Contrast gives the best visual. In the past one month, I started with ultrasound that “by accident” found my kidney mass. Then I had MRI with contrast, followed by CT scan of my chest. They were each used to “hunt”for something different. US found it, MRI checked other organs, arteries and veins for possible spread of CA and finally CT of my chest to check my lungs. We are all on a journey each different, but ironically all the same.
Blessings.
Doug