CT Scans for Abdominal Discomfort: What You Need to Know

Questions about Computed Tomography (CT) Scans?

I would like to ask about my discomfort in the upper right abdomen that has persisted for the past couple of months.
I have undergone ultrasound, gastroscopy, and colonoscopy, and aside from gastroesophageal reflux and mild gastritis, no other issues were found.
However, the symptoms have continued for two to three months.
The uncomfortable area is located just below the right rib cage and above the navel on the right side.
If I want to pay out of pocket for a CT scan, can I have both the thoracic and abdominal cavities scanned together? (As a family medicine physician previously mentioned the area at the diaphragm junction.) Would this be considered two separate areas? Thank you.

Liu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/03

Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology

Hello, when arranging advanced imaging health examinations, it is recommended to consider the patient's medical history and the purpose of the examination.
For lung cancer screening, the best method currently is low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) of the lungs.
For the gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and colon, endoscopic examination is preferred.
For abdominal organs, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be considered.
For whole-body tumor screening, some hospitals offer out-of-pocket positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) or positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI).
While the radiation dose from low-dose lung cancer screening CT is lower, the radiation exposure risks from CT scans of other areas should be taken into account.
Each imaging modality has its advantages and disadvantages, and since each patient's medical history and examination purpose differ, it is advisable to discuss with a health examination specialist before scheduling the appropriate tests.
Please take this into consideration, and I wish you good health and safety.

Reply Date: 2022/01/03

More Info

When considering a CT scan for abdominal discomfort, particularly in the context of ongoing symptoms like right upper quadrant pain, it's essential to understand the role of imaging studies in diagnosing potential underlying conditions. You've already undergone several diagnostic procedures, including ultrasound, gastroscopy, and colonoscopy, which have ruled out significant issues like gastroesophageal reflux and mild gastritis. However, persistent discomfort warrants further investigation.

A CT scan (computed tomography) is a powerful imaging tool that provides detailed cross-sectional images of the body, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the abdominal and thoracic cavities. It can help identify various conditions affecting the organs in these areas, including the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, and even the lungs, depending on the scan's focus.

In your case, if you are considering a CT scan to evaluate your ongoing symptoms, it is indeed possible to have a CT scan that encompasses both the abdomen and the chest. This type of scan is often referred to as a "CT of the abdomen and pelvis" or a "CT chest and abdomen." The advantage of this approach is that it allows for a simultaneous assessment of both areas, which can be particularly useful if there is a concern about conditions that may affect both the thoracic and abdominal regions, such as diaphragmatic issues or referred pain from thoracic structures.

Regarding your specific symptoms, pain in the right upper quadrant can be attributed to several potential causes, including gallbladder disease (such as gallstones or cholecystitis), liver conditions (like hepatitis or liver tumors), pancreatic issues (such as pancreatitis), or even gastrointestinal problems (like peptic ulcers). Additionally, conditions affecting the diaphragm or lower lungs can sometimes manifest as abdominal pain, making a comprehensive evaluation even more critical.

When planning for a CT scan, it's important to discuss with your healthcare provider whether you should use contrast material. Contrast agents can enhance the visibility of certain structures and help identify abnormalities more clearly. However, the decision to use contrast will depend on your medical history, any allergies you may have, and the specific details of your symptoms.

In summary, a CT scan can be a valuable tool in diagnosing the cause of your abdominal discomfort, especially when previous tests have not provided conclusive answers. By including both the chest and abdomen in the scan, you can ensure a thorough evaluation of potential issues that may be contributing to your symptoms. Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action based on your individual situation, and ensure that all relevant medical history and symptoms are communicated effectively. This collaborative approach will help in obtaining the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan moving forward.

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