CT scan

Reviewed by Dr Sarah Burnett, consultant radiologist and Professor Alastair J Munro, professor of radiation oncology and Dr John Pillinger, GP

Is a CT scan dangerous?

Far more X-rays are involved in a CT scan than in ordinary X-rays, so doctors do not recommend CT scans without a good medical reason. Some patients may experience side effects due to allergic reactions to the liquid dye injected into the veins.

In very rare cases, this dye has been known to damage already weakened kidneys. It is important to let the X-ray doctors or technicians know if you have any allergies, asthma or kidney trouble, prior to having the X-ray dye injected.

How is a CT scan read?

A CT scan can give the doctor a much clearer picture of the inside of the body than an ordinary X-ray. For example, different types of tissue such as bone, muscle and fatty tissue are easy to see on a CT scan. When looking at the abdomen, the scan shows various organs such as the pancreas, spleen and liver.

When it is necessary to look at the brain, the areas containing liquid - the ventricles - are also clearly defined. Very small shadows on the lungs can also be detected using CT and there are now studies looking into using it as a screening test for lung cancer.

<<Go To Page 1

The documents contained in this web site are presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. The materials in this web site cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Conditions for use



© Copyright 1998 - 2004 NetDoctor.co.uk - All rights reserved