A special
computed tomography (CT) scanner called a spiral
(helical) CT can quickly provide a scan of the lungs in half the time of a
standard CT scan. Spiral CT gets its name from the circular movement of the
scanner around your body. Spiral CT scan is being studied as a screening test
for
lung cancer.
The advantages of a spiral CT scan over standard CT scanning
include:
- A shorter test time. Movement can affect the
scan, so it may be easier to hold your breath during a shorter scan
time.
- Better pictures of the lungs and other
organs.
Spiral CT to detect lung cancer is not a routine test because
of:
- Cost.
- Access. This test is not
available everywhere.
- The chance of
false-positive results, which could lead to unneeded
tests or surgery. This is a concern if small noncancerous nodules are found on
the spiral CT.
- The lack of clear evidence that having a spiral CT
improves a person's long-term outcome (prognosis).
A spiral CT scan is more likely to be considered for people who have
a high risk for lung cancer.
| By | Healthwise Staff |
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| Primary Medical Reviewer | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine |
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| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Michael Seth Rabin, MD - Medical Oncology |
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| Last Revised | May 27, 2010 |
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