What is a non-contrast whole-body scan used to check for?
May 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Whole-body non-contrast scan is used to examine whether there are lesions and assess the extent of abnormalities in areas such as the head, chest, abdomen, and cervical spine. It helps detect brain conditions including cerebral infarction, intracranial tumors, and intracranial hemorrhage, and evaluates the chest for diseases such as pneumonia, mediastinal tumors, and costochondritis. It also examines abdominal organs including the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, and uterus, as well as spinal conditions in the lumbar region such as lumbar disc herniation and spinal stenosis.
In general, whole-body non-contrast scanning is used to examine whether there are lesions and assess the extent of any abnormalities in areas such as the head, chest, abdomen, and cervical spine. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Head
When patients experience symptoms such as dizziness or headache, brain lesions can be detected through whole-body non-contrast scanning, including conditions like cerebral infarction, intracranial tumors, and intracranial hemorrhage.
2. Chest
When patients have symptoms such as chest tightness, chest pain, or shortness of breath, this scan can help identify chest lesions such as pneumonia, mediastinal tumors, and costochondritis.
3. Abdomen
When patients experience abdominal pain or other discomfort, whole-body scanning can detect abnormalities in organs such as the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, and uterus.
4. Cervical Spine
When patients experience restricted movement, joint pain, or similar symptoms, the scan can reveal conditions such as cervical disc herniation or spinal stenosis, as well as determine whether nerves are being compressed.
Besides the areas mentioned above, other regions such as the maxillofacial area and lower limbs can also be examined. Based on the patient's scan results and the physician's evaluation, targeted treatments can be provided to prevent disease progression and further damage to the patient's health.
