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Spiral CT Scan for Lung Cancer

A special computed tomography (CT) scanner called a spiral (helical) CT can quickly provide a scan of the lungs in half the time of a standard CT scan. Spiral CT gets its name from the circular movement of the scanner around your body. Spiral CT scan is being studied as a screening test for lung cancer.

The advantages of a spiral CT scan over standard CT scanning include:

  • A shorter test time. Movement can affect the scan, so it may be easier to hold your breath during a shorter scan time.
  • Better pictures of the lungs and other organs.

Spiral CT to detect lung cancer is not a routine test because of:

  • Cost.
  • Access. This test is not available everywhere.
  • The chance of false-positive results, which could lead to unneeded tests or surgery. This is a concern if small noncancerous nodules are found on the spiral CT.
  • The lack of clear evidence that having a spiral CT improves a person's long-term outcome (prognosis).

A spiral CT scan is more likely to be considered for people who have a high risk for lung cancer.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Michael Seth Rabin, MD - Medical Oncology
Last Revised May 27, 2010

Last Revised: May 27, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Michael Seth Rabin, MD - Medical Oncology

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