What does a full body scan diagnose?

The Total Body CT scan analyzes three major areas of the body: the lungs, the heart, and the abdomen/pelvis. The lung CT can detect early, potentially malignant nodules. In the heart, the scan can detect aortic aneurysms and calcium deposits within plaque in the coronary arteries.

Why do you need a body scan?

You need to examine your bones to check for various skeletal diseases. In addition to providing doctors images of soft tissue, organs, and bone injuries, CT scans also aid doctors with the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis as well as other similar diseases.

Does a full body CT scan include the head?

Areas commonly scanned for cancer include the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, or limbs. A “total body” CT scan generally includes at least the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. Doctors often use this is for cancer staging. The benefits of having a CT scan usually outweigh the risks.

How do I prepare for a body scan?

Depending on which part of your body is being scanned, you may be asked to:

1. Take off some or all of your clothing and wear a hospital gown.
2. Remove metal objects, such as a belt, jewelry, dentures and eyeglasses, which might interfere with image results.
3. Refrain from eating or drinking for a few hours before your scan.

How long does it take to do a full body scan?

A whole body bone scan takes around 3-4 hours, which includes two separate visits.

Can you do a full body MRI?

While highly effective imaging single body areas such as the spine, liver or brain, MRI is also capable of scanning the entire body for physical abnormalities, tumours in the earliest stages of formation, or simply an overall snapshot of one’s general health.

Why would a doctor order a full body scan?

Sometimes a doctor might order a full body scan in the absence of any disease or symptoms, as a preventative tool – like a mammogram or a colonoscopy. Some medical professionals believe that body scans can help detect very early stages of disease, allowing for earlier treatments, and possibly higher survival rates. Who Needs A Full Body Scan?

What does a full body CT scan show?

Most full body CT scans take pictures of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis and often detect hidden problems you may not have known about. Your doctor might schedule you for a CT scan for many reasons.

Why would a doctor order a CT scan for cancer patients?

The scan can help the doctor with guidance during a biopsy, surgery, or while a patient is undergoing radiation therapy. A CT scan may be ordered if your doctor suspects you have a tumor or blood clot.

Who is a good candidate for a full body scan?

Some medical professionals will tell you that anyone who is concerned about his health is a good candidate for a full body scan. After all, diseases can hit at any age, and any fitness level. For example, young and super-fit marathon runners can suffer heart attacks, or non-smokers can develop lung cancer.