Chest CT Scan After a Viral Infection: When Is It Necessary?
During the cold season, we face an increased risk of viral infections. Some of these do not lead to serious complications and can be quickly cured with medication prescribed by a specialist. In other cases, however, patients may experience more severe symptoms caused by viral infections and other conditions. In these situations, a specialist may recommend a chest CT scan, which allows for a detailed examination of the organs that may be affected.
Today we’ll take a closer look at this state-of-the-art imaging method so you can learn what it entails, when it’s necessary, and what benefits it offers when performed. In addition, you’ll learn how to prepare for a chest CT scan, in case you need to undergo this test—especially during cold and flu season.
What is a chest CT scan?
Computed tomography (CT) of the chest is a state-of-the-art imaging method performed using specialized, high-performance equipment. This equipment allows for the acquisition of detailed images of the lungs, heart, blood vessels, airways, ribs, and lymph nodes.
With this type of imaging test, a specialist can determine the causes of a persistent cough, breathing difficulties experienced by patients, and chest pain. A chest CT scan is also useful for detecting various infections that can affect this area of the body, symptoms of pulmonary embolism, or signs that may indicate early-stage lung cancer.
Types of Chest CT Scans
There are three types of chest CT scans that a specialist may recommend to patients:
- Native CT scan of the chest—This is performed using a special CT scanner, without contrast dye. During the examination, various light lines will be projected onto the patient’s body while the scanner rotates around them to capture detailed images of the lungs, heart, and respiratory tract.
- Contrast-enhanced chest CT scan—When there are no allergy-related risks, the specialist recommends a contrast-enhanced chest CT scan using an iodine-based contrast agent. Thanks to its unique properties, it allows for highly accurate visualization of all tissues in this area of the body. The contrast agent is not radioactive; it is administered orally or intravenously and is rapidly eliminated in the urine within just a few hours of administration.
- Thoracic CT Angiography – This type of thoracic CT scan uses X-rays at minimized doses to obtain detailed images of the heart and blood vessels by combining computed tomography with conventional angiography. This type of imaging test is typically recommended by a specialist when there is suspicion of abnormalities involving the blood vessels of the heart or lungs.
When is a chest CT scan necessary?
- When diagnosing certain conditions affecting the lungs, heart, and respiratory tract (pneumonia, tuberculosis, pulmonary fibrosis, bronchiectasis).
- To provide precise guidance for conducting further investigations or to determine the most effective treatment based on important factors such as the location, size, and shape of the tumors identified in these regions.
- For the purpose of detecting and monitoring lung nodules or lung cancer.
- When it is necessary to monitor certain conditions over time, including when it is desired to assess changes in the size of tumors identified during and after treatment for cancer.
- To investigate unexplained chest symptoms such as acute chest pain, shortness of breath, persistent cough, or hemoptysis (the presence of blood in the sputum).
What are the benefits of a chest CT scan?
- It is a noninvasive imaging test with minimal radiation exposure that can provide essential information about the location and severity of certain conditions affecting the lungs, heart, airways, and blood vessels.
- It is performed quickly, which is extremely important, especially for patients experiencing difficulty breathing.
- It is a procedure that causes no pain or discomfort during the procedure itself, and offers the advantage of providing an accurate diagnosis in the shortest possible time.
- It eliminates the need for exploratory surgery, making it possible to establish an accurate diagnosis based on the high-resolution images obtained.
Preparing for the Investigation
If your specialist has recommended that you undergo a chest CT scan, here is everything you need to know to prepare for this medical test:
- Before entering the special examination room, please remove any jewelry and metal objects, as they may affect the clarity of the images obtained using the imaging equipment.
- In the special examination area, you will lie down comfortably on a surface that will glide smoothly into the center of the scanner, after which the X-ray beam—at minimized doses—will begin to rotate.
- You must remain still while inside the special CT scanner for the chest to ensure that the images obtained are clear.
Therefore, a chest computed tomography (CT) scan is an essential imaging test for the rapid diagnosis and accurate monitoring of a wide range of lung conditions, chest lesions, and lung tumors. It is a 100% safe procedure, free of pain and discomfort, that offers maximum benefits to patients.
Our team of specialists welcomes you to the MedicalES Network, equipped with state-of-the-art imaging technology, and is ready to support you on your journey to regaining your health.
