Inconclusive CT-scan and X-ray results

[wplac]

Whilst currently experiencing rib pain, occasional back discomfort and loss of appetite, the team of experts are struggling to diagnose my X-ray and CT scans. If my rib and back pain was caused by lung cancer, in general, wouldn't a more definitive and larger tumour be present prior to metastasis?

The suggestion to date is either a mass as a result of secondary infection, or malignancy. Which are two prospects at opposite ends of the spectrum.