Computed tomography (CT) is a non-invasive imaging procedure that uses x-rays to produce 3-dimensional images of the structures of the body. While it is used widely for the diagnosis of various conditions, it is the first choice for staging cancer. It is highly effective in determining how far the cancer has spread to the other organs. This blog explores how to detect cancer using computed tomography.
How is the CT scan helpful in diagnosing Cancer?
The CT scan is a crucial tool in the diagnosis of cancer due to its ability to provide detailed and comprehensive images. CT scan offers valuable insights for cancer diagnosis in several ways.
Screening: CT scans play a vital role in cancer prevention by offering efficient screening methods. They allow doctors to examine individuals who might have a higher risk of developing cancer, even before any symptoms appear. For example, individuals with a family history of certain cancers can be monitored using CT scans to catch any potential issues early on.
Diagnosis: When doctors suspect cancer, CT scans step in to provide detailed images of the body’s internal structures. These images help pinpoint the location and size of tumours or abnormal growths.
Determining the Stage of Cancer: One of the crucial aspects of cancer diagnosis is understanding its stage – how far it has spread within the body. CT scans provide a comprehensive view of organs, lymph nodes, and tissues, helping doctors assess the extent of the disease. This information is essential in planning the most suitable treatment strategy.
Guiding Treatment: Once cancer is diagnosed, CT scans assist in planning treatments, such as surgeries or radiation therapy. By mapping the exact location of tumours and their proximity to vital structures, doctors can design precise treatment approaches, minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
Monitoring Treatment Response: During and after treatment, CT scans serve as progress trackers. Doctors usually use CT scans to see how well chemotherapy or radiation therapy works. Whether the treatment is effective or if adjustments are needed becomes apparent through changes in tumour size or appearance.
Follow-Up Care: After cancer treatment, CT scans play a role in monitoring for recurrence or new growth. Regular scans help ensure early detection of any potential issues.
Computed Tomography (CT) in diagnosing various cancers
Lung Cancer
CT is the most preferred choice for lung cancer since it can detect minuscule tumors as small as the size of a grain of rice resulting in the reduction of cancer deaths by 20%. Lung Cancer kills 150000 people annually. While a chest X-ray identifies lung cancer when it is in the late stage, an LDCT is more effective for Lung Cancer.
Ovarian Cancer
In the case of Ovarian Cancer, a CT scan is a more effective tool in revealing large tumours and whether they have spread to other pelvic structures or distant areas.
Colorectal Cancer
For colorectal cancer, CT scans are essential for identifying tumours and assessing the extent of the disease. They help doctors determine the exact location of the tumour, its size, and whether it has spread to lymph nodes and other organs.
Liver Cancer
CT scans are highly effective in visualizing the liver and detecting any signs of liver cancer. They provide detailed images that help doctors determine the size, location, and number of tumours within the liver.
Pancreatic Cancer
CT scans are crucial for diagnosing pancreatic cancer. They allow doctors to visualize the pancreas and surrounding structures, helping them detect tumours or other abnormalities. These scans also aid in determining whether the cancer has spread to nearby organs.
Brain Tumors
MRIs are the primary choice for brain imaging but CT scans are more quick. To assess emergency cases and identify abnormalities that might require immediate intervention, professionals use them. It helps treat bleeding or swelling due to brain tumours.
Breast Cancer
CT scans assist in diagnosing and staging breast cancer. While they are not the primary imaging tool for breast cancer detection (mammograms and MRIs are more common), CT scans help determine if cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or lungs.
When it comes to cancer diagnosis and treatment, CT scans serve as versatile tools, providing detailed insights into various types of cancer. Their ability to visualize internal structures with precision aids in making accurate diagnoses, determining treatment plans, and offering patients the best possible care.