Whole Body CT Scans

Whole Body CT Scanning is a new diagnostic technique that uses computed tomography (CT) to help identify potential problems and diseases before symptoms even appear.

What can the scan reveal?
A whole body CT can provide a "snapshot" of the body's anatomy, giving the physician a clear and detailed look inside the body. The scan analyzes three major areas of the body: the lungs, the heart, and the abdomen/pelvis. The lung CT can detect early, potentially malignant nodules. In the heart, the scan can detect aortic aneurysms and calcium deposits within plaque in the coronary arteries. In the abdomen/pelvis area, the scan can identify kidney stones and some cysts, enlarged lymph nodes, large abdominal masses, abdominal aneurysms, an enlarged spleen, a fatty liver, limited masses, large pelvic masses, pancreatic, adrenal, kidney and liver tumors.

For high-risk individuals the proposed benefit of having a whole body CT Scan lies in the potential of early detection and treatment. As an educated consumer, you need to weigh the benefits against any potential risks of having a whole body CT scan. Take into consideration your individual circumstances, including risk factors and family history. High risk factors may include:

• An individual or family history of coronary artery disease,
• An individual or family history of abdominal aneurysm,
• Being 45 or over,
• Smoking at least on pack of cigarettes a day for at least 10 years regardless if you no longer smoke,
• History of high cholesterol, diabetes, or high blood pressure,
• Being overweight,
• An inactive lifestyle,
• Concerns about abdominal and/or pelvic disease.
• Family history of kidney stones or kidney problems,
• Family history of cancer