Cancer is one of the top reasons for death globally. As per “the World Health Organization,” cancer causes around 10 million deaths per year. It is crucial that cancer is detected and treated early to enhance the probability of survival. One of the key tools in the diagnosis of cancer and its treatment is the CT scan. The scan is instrumental in detecting cancer in its early stages. It also greatly facilitates the planning and monitoring of cancer treatment. This blog discusses the role of CT scans in early detection and the modalities of treatments.
Cancer Detection And Treatment
Cancer occurs when cells grow and divide uncontrollably, resulting in tumorous growth. It can occur in any body part. Early detection of cancer is critical because it allows for treatment to begin before the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Radiation therapy, surgery, and chemotherapy together treat cancer.
CT Scans For Cancer
Doctors commonly use CT scans for the detection and monitoring of the progression of treatment. They are particularly useful in identifying cancers deep inside the body, such as lung or liver cancer. CT scans can detect tumors as small as a grain of rice. They can also uncover any modifications in the shape and size of tumors over time.
In addition to detecting cancer, CT scans are useful in planning and monitoring cancer treatment. Medical practitioners use it to guide the placement of radiation therapy and to monitor the effectiveness of chemotherapy. The resurgence of cancer after treatment is detectable by CT scans.
Types Of CT Scans For Cancer
There are several types of CT scans for cancer;
Diagnostic CT scan: Medical specialists use a diagnostic CT scan to identify cancer in its early stages. It is utilized when a patient has signs of cancer, like unreasonable weight loss.
Staging CT scan: A staging CT scan assesses the stage. Staging is indicative of the specific spread rate and the influx of cancer within the body. Knowing the cancer stage is important in determining the best course of treatment. After a certain stage, cancer can become untreatable.
Treatment planning CT scan: A treatment planning CT scan plans radiation therapy. It is used with other imaging tests, such as MRI or PET scans.
Follow-up CT scan: A follow-up CT scan is used to monitor the effectiveness of cancer treatment. It is often used to detect the recurrence of cancer.
Limitations Of CT Scans For Cancer
While CT scans are a valuable tool in cancer detection and treatment, they have limitations. First, it exposes patients to ionizing radiation, which can increase cancer risk. The risk of radiation exposure is higher in younger patients and patients requiring multiple CT scans. It can result in cancer patients suffering from mutations or further exasperation of their condition.
Another limiting factor with CT scans is that unexpected results can occur. A false positive occurs when the CT scan detects a mass or abnormality that is not cancerous. A false negative occurs when the CT scan cannot determine the presence of cancer.
CT Scan Side Effects and Risks: What You Need to Know
Like any medical procedure, evaluating the risks and benefits with your doctor before a CT scan is essential. While the information obtained from a CT scan is critical to diagnosing and treating cancer, there are potential side effects to consider:
Radiation: There is a low level of ionizing radiation in CT scans, which is slightly more than what an X-ray emits. Although there is a small concern that even low doses of radiation may cause cancer, the benefits of obtaining valuable diagnostic information far outweigh the minimal risks associated with this exposure. To reduce the risk, various organizations have implemented programs.
Allergic Reactions: While rare, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to the contrast agents used in a CT scan. Symptoms may include itching or hives. In severe cases, a patient may face breathing issues and throat swelling. If you experience these symptoms, alert the technologist immediately so that prompt treatment can be provided.
Kidney Function: If you have impaired kidney function, the contrast dye used during a CT scan may exacerbate your condition. As per the National Kidney Foundation, approximately 2% of patients who receive contrast dyes develop contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN), which may result in feet swelling, fatigue, itchy and dry skin. In severe cases, CIN may result in severe heart and kidney issues.
Comparing MRI and CT Scans for Cancer Diagnosis
When it comes to diagnosing cancer, medical professionals employ a range of diagnostic tools to capture detailed images of a patient’s body. Two commonly used diagnostic techniques are Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and CT scans. While both techniques are effective and relatively safe, some key differences may influence a patient’s preference depending on their unique circumstances.
CT scans employ X-rays for internal body images, while MRIs use radio waves. Both techniques can capture detailed images of the body’s internal structures. However, CT scans have some advantages over MRIs. For example, CT scans are better suited for imaging the lungs and colon and detecting even small tumors hidden within these tissues. Additionally, CT scans are ideal for imaging atherosclerosis inside arteries, which suggests coronary heart disease. On the other hand, MRIs are the best imaging technique for the brain, spinal cord, and prostate gland.
Another advantage of CT scans over MRIs is their speed and relative non-invasiveness. CT scans only cover a portion of the body, and the procedure takes only a few minutes to complete. In contrast, MRI scans capture images of the entire body and require the patient to lie still for up to 40 minutes. This can be challenging for patients who experience claustrophobia. Additionally, MRI procedures are noisy, so patients must wear ear protection.
MRI and CT scans have some side effects, some of which may be serious. One significant risk associated with CT scans is exposure to ionizing radiation, which can damage DNA and increase the risk of developing cancer. According to research, the likelihood of developing fatal cancer due to a CT scan is about 1 in 2,000. In contrast, MRIs do not use ionizing radiation, so they do not pose a cancer risk.
Conclusion
CT scans are a valuable tool in cancer detection and treatment. They can identify early cancer and are useful in planning and monitoring cancer treatment. However, they have limitations, such as the risk of radiation exposure and the potential for false positives and negatives. Patients must ask about the advantages and risks associated with CT scans with their healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure. With proper use and interpretation, CT scans can play an important role in improving the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. As medical technology advances, CT scans are becoming more sophisticated and accurate, allowing for earlier and more accurate cancer detection.
It is crucial to remember that a CT scan is just one of several techniques available to fight cancer. The detection and monitoring of cancer may also involve the use of other affordable imaging exams like MRIs and PET scans. Additionally, good eating habits and avoidance of unhealthy habits like alcohol and cigarettes can assist in reducing the risk of cancer.