A CT scan is one of the medical field’s most valuable tools in the detection of several types of cancer, including colon cancer. Since the disease mainly affects the large intestine of the human body, a CT scan is the right technology to get a detailed image of the area and detect any abnormal growths or tumors early.
If you (or a loved one) are thinking of undergoing a CT colonography or you have been ordered to undergo the procedure, there is no need to worry. Your physician will guide you through the process and explain the results in detail.
Should the results prompt a healthcare intervention plan to be set, your physician will be more than willing to walk you through the processes to give you the most beneficial health outcomes. It also matters to have a dedicated health team to demystify complex medical information and personalize care plans for your long-term health and recovery.
You may be wondering, though, how accurate is a CT scan for colon cancer?
Let’s find out.
Can You See Colon Polyps on a CT Scan?
Yes. Despite being a relatively new noninvasive imaging technique, CT colonography allows the detection of colorectal polyps and is highly effective in detecting their early stages of development. This advanced procedure uses cutting-edge technology to render detailed, high-resolution cross-sectional images of the colon, which helps detect abnormal growths or polyps on the colon’s lining.
The clarity and precision of the technique enhance the ability to spot polyps as they develop, leaving more time for timely diagnosis and successful treatments once needed.
Signs of Colon Cancer on CT Scan
Colon cancer frequently manifests in several distinct ways on a CT scan:
- Thick, irregularly shaped tumors – These are often visible in different shades of gray and have uneven or jagged edges, making them stand out from the surrounding healthy tissue.
- Thickening of the colon walls – In some cases, colon cancer can penetrate the lining of the colon, causing the walls to thicken. This appears as areas of increased density on the scan.
- Partial or total obstruction of the colon – Tumors may cause the colon to visibly narrow at the site of the obstruction, which can make bowel function more difficult.
- Enlarged lymph nodes near the colon – This could indicate that the cancer has progressed from the original site.
- Spread to other organs – The liver or lungs may develop new lesions or abnormalities, signaling metastatic disease.
How Accurate is a CT Scan for Colon Cancer?
CT scans are highly reliable for detecting colon cancer and other colon-related abnormalities. The sensitivity of CT colonography can reach an accuracy level of 80%, allowing radiologists to accurately detect colon and colorectal cancers at their only onset.
However, when considering how accurate is CT scan for colon cancer, it’s important to take note that this relatively new technology can still miss out on smaller polyps. Once a CT scan of the colon shows no abnormalities, it is still recommended to do a follow-up screening after five years to cover all bases and monitor developments in the colon area.
A CT scan may miss or misinterpret a polyp for several reasons, including being seen in only one position, having a flat CT morphology, being located in thickened colonic walls, or being smaller in size. Therefore, it is important not to rely on a single screening but on a series of diagnoses—a CT scan does not have the final say on the existence of colon cancer. There are a few more tests that can finalize the condition, such as colonoscopies or biopsies, for a more comprehensive diagnosis.
Get Expert Health Guidance with Craft Concierge
Being wary of the answer to the question, “How accurate is a CT scan for colon cancer detection?” can be quite understandable, but getting one, especially when advised by a healthcare professional, is one proactive step towards guarding your health and responding to any medical issue that could arise.
While intimidation and anxiety over complex medical procedures are normal, it is good to note that the process is noninvasive, painless, and highly effective. It is conducted to help you detect problems at their earliest onset, giving you the right information and tools to confront any health issue that may arise.
Remembering that you do not have to be alone in this journey is also beneficial. A dedicated healthcare team, in addition to their medical expertise and wide networks of health experts and facilities, can guide you through each step of the process and work collaboratively with you to personalize your healthcare approach. From the first screening to the interpretation of the results and up until the health intervention, a healthcare team can ensure that your treatment is personalized to your specific needs and concerns.
At Craft Concierge, our priority is accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and personalized care that responds to your needs and conditions. Without breaking the bank for hidden charges and insurance hassles, our healthcare team prioritizes your well-being through strong doctor-patient relationships and convenient access to a range of experts, facilities, and resources.
We are more than ready and capable of providing you with the support you will need so we can demystify the science behind complex medical information and afford you your well-deserved peace of mind. Contact us today!
