Many people wonder if cancer shows up on a CT scan, but this isn’t always the case. CT scans can detect tumors as small as two to three millimeters, but the size of the tumor will depend on where it is located and what it looks like before it becomes visible. In addition to this, there are some common misdiagnoses that can occur during a CT scan. To prevent these situations from happening, you should learn as much about the test as you can.
CT scans are often done on an outpatient basis, so you don’t need to stay in the hospital. Besides the fact that they use x-rays, CT scans also expose you to a significant amount of radiation. This can harm your unborn child. Because of this, pregnant women are encouraged to avoid CT scans if they are considering having a child. Also, radiation can cause damage to your unborn child.
A CT scan is a type of diagnostic imaging test that takes pictures of your body from different angles. A computer then combines all the images to create a three-dimensional image. This image can reveal tumors, as well as any other abnormalities inside the body. CT scans often require a contrast medium to improve the detail of the images. This contrast medium can be ingested or taken in liquid form. A CT scan of the whole body typically includes the abdomen, chest, and pelvis. The purpose of this test is to determine whether cancer has spread to other areas of the body.
Contrast dye is used during a CT scan. Make sure to tell your doctor if you’ve had any previous reactions to this dye, seafood, or iodine. If you’ve had a reaction before, you might need to take a special drug to protect your kidneys from the dye. Your doctor will discuss all your options for your CT scan. You may have to go for several additional tests and care after a CT scan.
The procedure itself is relatively painless. The only annoyance that you might experience is a whirring noise. It usually takes between twenty to thirty minutes to complete. When the procedure is done, the radiographer will lower the couch so you can get up. The scan results can help your doctor decide what treatment will be most effective for your condition. If your CT scan comes back with a cancer diagnosis, you can then make an informed decision.
Before having a CT scan, you should tell your doctor about any implanted medical devices you have. Usually, the implanted device will not affect the test, but you can still get a diagnosis of cancer. However, you should be aware of the risks and benefits of the procedure. If you do have any concerns about the results, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure.
