WHOLE BODY SCREEN

Whole Body CT Scan (Virtual Physical) Chest, Abdomen and Pelvic Screen Information

Who should have a Whole Body CT Scan?

Individuals who are suspect of having complications as a result of family history, but are experiencing no symptoms are good candidates for a whole body scan. The whole body scan examines the chest, abdominal organs, and pelvic structures for size, shape, and obvious abnormalities. Organ function cannot be determined in these non- contrast screenings.

Who should not have a Whole Body CT Scan?

You are not a candidate for a whole body scan if you are experiencing symptoms such as, but not limited to, localized pain or discomfort, nausea, shortness of breath, dizziness, and/ or headaches. If such symptoms persist, we recommend you consult your physician.

What can the Whole Body CT Scan Identify?

The detection of conditions specifically addressed during the whole body screen include, but are not limited to, abdominal aortic aneurysm, sizable hiatal hernia, dense gallstones, dense kidney stones, prostate enlargement, large ovarian masses/ cysts, adrenal masses, lung masses/ effusions/ pneumonia, large pancreatic masses, and prominent bone masses. Examinations requiring intravenous contrast and/ or oral contrast are more sensitive in the detection of subtle abnormalities.

Benefits of having a Whole Body CT Scan

v Early detection of potential life- threatening conditions
v Non- invasive
v Completed in a matter of minutes
v No preparation

Risks associated with Whole Body CT Scanning

The CT examinations you had are screening tests. These results do not constitute a medical diagnosis of disease or a guarantee of the absence of disease. They do not substitute for a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified physician.

Alternatives to Whole Body CT Scanning

An alternative to whole body scanning could be individual body segment scanning such as the chest, abdomen, or pelvis. Other scanning procedures are offered to determine abnormalities, however such procedures require a physician order and the individual must meet certain requirements set by the insurance provider.