CT Scans
A CT scan (also called a CAT scan) is a specific type of computerized X-ray. CT stands for Computed Tomography. The machine taking the X-rays rotates around the patient, and by doing so is able to generate a three-dimensional picture of the body, in “slices.” One set of scans will be done, and then the patient may be given a “contrast agent” by vein – a substance that will help outline and delineate different parts of the body.When trying to evaluate a patient with an abnormal chest X-ray, doctors will usually order a CT scan because it provides much more information. What looks like an area that could be fluid or pneumonia on plain X-ray may be more clearly seen as separate tumor and/or fluid. Masses in the middle of the chest near the heart are almost impossible to see on plain X-ray, but CT scan can delineate masses in what that area, called the hilum.
CT scans can also be useful in diagnosing peritoneal mesothelioma, by getting the three-dimensional pictures of the abdomen, looking for abnormal masses or fluid.
Since a CT scan can often give a picture of the tumor, it can also give an indication of its size and if it appears to have spread. A CT scan may give doctors the information they need to decide where to attempt to take a biopsy.
Dr. Kaplan