For patients with a high risk of lung cancer, early detection through regular screening is vital. The most common imaging tests used in detecting lung cancer include a low dose computed tomography scan, a standard computed tomography chest scan, and a positron emission tomography scan.
Screening for Lung Cancer
A computed tomography scan, most often referred to as a CT Scan, is a noninvasive test that uses x-ray and computer technology. When undergoing a CT scan, there is a risk of the patient being exposed to radiation. A low dose CT scan, or LDCT scan, provides multiple quality images of the lungs while emitting a much lower amount of radiation to the patient than a standard chest CT. Since lung cancer patients are screened frequently, the low dose CT scan is preferred in order to limit the radiation absorption.
Diagnosis and Assessment
A standard chest CT is performed in order to assess the condition of the lungs and any irregularities in greater detail. A chest CT is able to detect smaller tumors and can provide a diagnosis during the most treatable stage of lung cancer. If the chest CT shows any abnormalities, there may be a need for additional testing to be performed.
A positron emission tomography scan, or PET scan, uses a radioactive tracer injected into the patient to provide information on the metabolic function of cells. A PET scan is used in conjunction with a CT scan to determine the severity of the lung cancer. It is also used to assess how the patient is responding to their cancer treatment.
Imaging testing plays a critical part in every stage of a patient’s lung cancer journey, from detection to treatment. Having skilled knowledgeable radiologists that care about their patients can make all the difference. Learn more about our services and locations.