Spiral CT scan for lung cancer
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.
| Author: | Bets Davis, MFA | Last Updated: May 29, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Michael Seth Rabin, MD - Medical Oncology | |
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