Clinique Pasteur Tunis
Chest CT scan (lung CT)
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Chest CT scan (lung CT)

Chest CT scan in Tunis, Tunisia · Centre Urbain Nord

Chest CT scan in Tunis: examination of the lungs, airways and mediastinum (nodule, infection, lung disease), sometimes with a low dose.

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What is it?

A chest CT scan examines the lungs, the airways, the pleura (the lining of the lungs), the mediastinum (the central part of the chest with the heart, large vessels and lymph nodes) and the bones of the rib cage. It is much more precise than a chest X-ray. It is requested to characterise an abnormality seen on an X-ray, follow up a nodule, look for an infection or a complication, understand persistent breathlessness or cough, or monitor a chronic lung disease. For some indications, such as nodule follow-up, a low-dose protocol is used. It is often done without an injection to study the lungs. An iodinated injection is used to examine the mediastinum or the blood vessels; a pulmonary embolism is looked for with a CT angiogram (see the page "CT angiography of the aorta, chest and abdominal vessels").

When is it indicated?

Lung nodule

It measures and characterises a nodule, then allows it to be monitored, often with a low dose.

Complicated lung infection

It looks for extensive pneumonia, an abscess or fluid around the lung.

Persistent breathlessness or cough

It looks for a disease of the airways or lung tissue (fibrosis, emphysema).

Abnormality on a chest X-ray

It clarifies a doubtful image seen on the X-ray.

Preparation

1Tell us if you are pregnant or think you might be: a CT scan uses X-rays
2Remove necklaces, underwired bras and metal objects from the chest
3If an injection is planned, tell us about any allergy (especially to an iodinated contrast agent), kidney disease, diabetes or myeloma; a recent blood test (creatinine) may be requested
4Tell us if you take metformin (a diabetes treatment): whether to pause it around the injection is decided by the doctor
5If an injection is planned, do not eat for a few hours beforehand, as instructed when you book; your usual medicines can generally be taken with a little water
6Bring your referral, previous imaging (CT scan, MRI, X-rays, ultrasound) and any relevant reports

Procedure

1

You remove clothing and metal objects from the area to be examined; a gown may be provided

2

You lie on your back with your arms raised above your head

3

You lie on a table that slides slowly through a wide, open ring: it is not a closed tunnel

4

You are asked to breathe in and hold your breath for a few seconds during the pass

5

If an injection is needed, the iodinated contrast agent is given through a small drip in your arm: a brief feeling of warmth and a metallic taste are normal

6

You can then return to your usual activities; after an injection, drink plenty of fluids during the day (unless your doctor advises otherwise) to help clear the contrast agent

Duration

About 10 to 15 minutes in total

Results

The images are analysed by a radiologist, who writes a report. The report is given to you with the images and sent to your doctor, who will explain the results and the next steps. You will be told when to expect it on the day of the examination.

Precautions and contraindications

A CT scan uses X-rays: the dose is set as low as possible while still giving useful images, and the examination is only done when it is justified
Pregnancy: a relative contraindication; a CT scan is only performed if it is essential, after medical advice
Allergic reaction to the iodinated contrast agent (if injected): rare and usually mild (redness, itching); serious reactions are exceptional and the team is trained to manage them
In case of kidney failure, the iodinated injection can strain the kidneys: the doctor avoids or adjusts it
Rarely, the contrast agent can leak under the skin at the drip site: temporary swelling, easily managed

Your doctor and the radiology team will inform you in detail before the examination. Feel free to ask them your questions.

This information is general and does not replace the advice of your doctor, who chooses the examination suited to your situation.

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