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How Is Cancer Detected by CT Scans?

Posted on by Southwest Diagnostic Center for Molecular Imaging in

Anytime we can detect cancer at an early stage it serves to increase our chances for early treatment and survival. A CT scan, or computed tomography, is sometimes known as a CAT scan. It is a more sophisticated type of imaging than an X-ray, giving doctors 3D images of the inside of the body. It has many uses, including looking for internal bleeding or clots, bone fractures, spine and brain injuries, and other conditions. Detecting cancer is an especially important one. How is cancer detected by CT scans?

Easier to Diagnose Tumors Without an Invasive Procedure

With a CT scan, there is no need for invasive biopsies or incisions to detect cancer, and it is completely painless.

  • Southwest Diagnostic Center for Molecular Imaging can diagnose a cancer tumor since a CT scan provides a detailed look of the tumor’s size and shape, its location, and mass. It can also show any blood vessels feeding the tumor.
  • Most of the time doctors use CT as the first choice for staging cancer. This identifies how severe the cancer is, whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes, or has metastasized to other organs in the body.
  • The scan can also check for the recurrence of cancer.
  • It can also tell doctors whether a particular treatment is effective and working.

Sometimes a contrast agent is needed to highlight specific areas of interest. All this information provides a plan for the best treatment.

What Are the Most Common Cancers Detected Via CT Scan?

One of the most common cancers detected by a CT scan is lung cancer. Anyone over age 50 and a heavy smoker may need annual low dose CT scans to screen for early stage lung cancer.

CT scans are also typically used to find abdominal cancers including:

Supplemental Screenings With CT Scans

In addition to a CT scan, your doctor may order other screenings to complement the CT. For example, an ultrasound or an MRI may be needed to detect cancers in the brain. 

Scans together with blood tests, physical exams, and biopsies all give your doctor a comprehensive understanding of your health.

Contact Southwest Diagnostic Center for Molecular Imaging at (214) 345-8300 if you have questions or concerns about an upcoming CT scan or to schedule a CT scan in Dallas.

Sources: CT Scan vs. MRI: What’s the Difference? And How Do Doctors Choose Which Imaging Method to Use? | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (mskcc.org)

How Accurate Is a CT Scan for Cancer? — Radiology Associates Imaging

CT Scan for Cancer: What Types Are Detected With This Imaging? | Charlotte Radiology