(Low-Dose Computed Tomography; Low-Dose Helical CT Scan) A low-dose CT scan is a type of x-ray. It can create detailed pictures of the lungs. This scan creates more details than a basic x-ray but uses less radiation than regular CT scan. Reasons for ProcedureA low-dose scan is used to look for lung cancer in people without symptoms. It can help to see early changes in the lung that may suggest cancer. Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths. The rate of survival may improve with early diagnosis and treatment. The test is only recommended for those who have all 3 risk factors for lung cancer listed below
The scan itself cannot confirm cancer. If this scan shows an abnormal area, more tests will need to be done to see if there is cancer. Possible ComplicationsProblems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Screening tests can lead to unnecessary procedures and stress. This can happen if:
A CT scan uses radiation to make the images. Repeated doses of radiation increase the risk of cancer. The risk increases with the number of tests. This scan uses a lower amount of radiation than other CT scans but there is still a risk. What to ExpectPrior to ProcedureThe doctor will talk about the risks and benefits of a low-dose CT scan. It will include your risk of lung cancer based on smoking history. Both the number of cigarettes per day and years smoking will be reviewed. Before the test, you may need to:
Description of the ProcedureYou will lie on a table with your arms over your head. The table will slide into the center of the scanner. A technician may ask you to hold your breath and stay still for a short time. The scan often takes less than 1 minute. How Long Will It Take?The appointment may take about 30 minutes. The test itself is less than 1 minute. Will It Hurt?It is a painless procedure. Post-procedure CareYou can leave as soon as the tests are done. Your doctor will call about the tests results. A positive test means that an abnormal area was found. Other tests will be needed to see if there is cancer. A negative test means that there were no suspicious areas. Call Your DoctorCall your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away. ReferencesLung Cancer Screening (PDQ®)–Health Professional Version. NIH National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/lung/hp/lung-screening-pdq. Updated April 1, 2020. Accessed May 19, 2020. Who should be screened for lung cancer? Center for Disease Control (CDC) website. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/lung/basic%5Finfo/screening.htm. Updated September 18, 2019. Accessed May 19, 2020. Saved by the Scan. American Lung Association website. Available at: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/lung-cancer/saved-by-the-scan. Accessed May 19, 2020. Lung Cancer Screening. EBSCO Dynamed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/prevention/lung-cancer-screening#GUID-220FF6AB-0929-406F-A07A-3D3ECB015C12 . Updated February 24, 2020. Accessed May 19, 2020. Revision Information
 The only recommended screening test for lung cancer is low-dose computed tomography (also called a low-dose CT scan). Screening is recommended only for adults who have no symptoms but are at high risk. Screeningexternal icon means testing for a disease when there are no symptoms or history of that disease. Doctors recommend a screening test to find a disease early, when treatment may work better. The only recommended screening test for lung cancer is low-dose computed tomography (also called a low-dose CT scan, or LDCT). During an LDCT scan, you lie on a table and an X-ray machine uses a low dose (amount) of radiation to make detailed images of your lungs. The scan only takes a few minutes and is not painful. Who Should Be Screened?The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendsexternal icon yearly lung cancer screening with LDCT for people who—
A pack-year is smoking an average of one pack of cigarettes per day for one year. For example, a person could have a 20 pack-year history by smoking one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years. Risks of ScreeningLung cancer screening has at least three risks—
That is why lung cancer screening is recommended only for adults who are at high risk for developing the disease because of their smoking history and age, and who do not have a health problem that substantially limits their life expectancy or their ability or willingness to have lung surgery, if needed. If you are thinking about getting screened, talk to your doctor. If lung cancer screening is right for you, your doctor can refer you to a high-quality screening facility. The best way to reduce your risk of lung cancer is to not smoke and to avoid secondhand smoke. Lung cancer screening is not a substitute for quitting smoking. When Should Screening Stop?The Task Force recommends that yearly lung cancer screening stop when the person being screened—
Insurance and Medicare CoverageMost insurance plans and Medicare help pay for recommended lung cancer screening tests. Check with your insurance plan to find out what benefits are covered for lung cancer screening. For more information about Medicare coverage, visit www.medicare.govexternal icon or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1 (877) 486-2048. For Consumers and Patients
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What is the difference between a low dose ct scan and a regular ct scan
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