Thoracic CT

Alternative names:

chest CT; CT scan of the chest; CT scan of the lungs

What the risks are:

CT scans and other X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to reproduce the image. During pregnancy, a thoracic CT scan is not recommended unless the benefits outweigh the risk of radiation exposure to the fetus. CT scans provide low levels of radiation.

The most common dye used is iodine-based. A person who is allergic to iodine may experience nausea, sneezing, vomiting, itching, or hives. In people who are sensitive to iodine, the dye may occasionally cause anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergic response) or toxic effects to the kidneys.

Special considerations:

The benefits of a CT scan usually far outweigh the risks of the X-rays. A CT scan is one of the best ways of "looking" at soft tissues such as the heart and lungs.