What diseases can be detected by a chest CT scan?
Dec 17, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xiao Ning
Introduction
Chest CT is commonly used to check for diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, pleural effusion, rib fractures, and lung cancer. CT scans can clearly visualize changes in lung tissue and identify abnormalities such as nodules, cavities, and calcification sites through imaging analysis. However, in some cases, CT can only serve as an initial diagnostic tool and cannot provide a definitive diagnosis; therefore, other tests should also be used for comprehensive analysis.
Generally, a chest CT scan can detect conditions such as pneumonia, pulmonary tuberculosis, pleural effusion, rib fractures, lung cancer, and others. If experiencing any discomfort, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition caused by infection with bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. It mainly presents with symptoms such as coughing and expectoration. CT imaging can clearly show the inflamed areas in the lungs, appearing as regions of increased density with blurred margins.
2. Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Pulmonary tuberculosis is a chronic infectious disease caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Clinically, it presents as persistent coughing, expectoration, hemoptysis, and other symptoms. CT imaging may reveal nodules, cavities, or calcified lesions in the lung tissue.
3. Pleural Effusion
Pleural effusion is commonly associated with infections, tumors, and other factors. Symptoms include chest tightness and chest pain. When the volume of pleural effusion increases, CT scans may show shadows in the lung tissue and allow observation of the thickness and extent of the effusion.
4. Rib Fracture
Rib fractures are typically associated with injuries such as falls or impacts, which can cause the ribs to break. CT scans can reveal the location and severity of the fracture, including displacement of the fracture ends.
5. Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is often associated with long-term smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, and other factors. Symptoms include coughing, hemoptysis, and shortness of breath. CT imaging allows clear visualization of the tumor's exact location, size, and shape. If malignant, it may present as solid nodules in the lungs that are relatively hard, poorly mobile, with unclear boundaries and adhesion to surrounding tissues.
Chest CT scanning is only a preliminary diagnostic method. If abnormal results are found, further tests should be conducted for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment under a doctor's guidance.
