I had my one year PET scan at the end of June and they found what appeared to be a "hot spot" 1 1/2 cm on my lung. 10 days later I had a CT scan and an apointment with the Pulmanary Dept. The Hot SPot had almost totally disappeared and was apparently an infection. Obviously we were all pleased and relieved. Now I am scheduled for another CT scan at the end of Sept I believe to be sure that the hot spot is still gone. I have read a few items about the danger of the radiation dose from the CT scan increasing the chance of cancer and I am wondering if its worth the risk. Perhaps I should not be concerned as I have already had 35 readiation treatments for my tonsil cancer and neck nodes. I was taking an antibiotic at the time because we were trying to see if the re-occuring blisters on my lips were an infection. I was thinking the anti-biotic probably helped get rid of the lung infection by coinicdental good timing. Saving me from an unnecessary biopsy.

By the way the radiation Dr gave me the antibiotic. The ENT Dr told me my lip blisters are caused by blocked saliva glands in my lip. They get cists on them and the cists burst...it gets worse if you aren't drinking enough water or are run down. I had posted a question once trying to figure out these painful blisters.

Anyway I would be interested in hearing what others think about CT scans and how many you've had.

Mica

CT scans are the most effective scan modality for the lungs, especially the spiral CT. They do produce the most x-rays of any scan but that is the tradeoff (1 CT scan is = to 6 years of normal background ecposure). MRI's just aren't very effective for lung scans.

Mica,

You could just wait and see. If it turns out to be cancer it should grow to the point that you can see it while you're getting dressed. It may start causing some health issues by that time, but at least the radiation won't get you.

Mica, think about the question! You already had cancer and you can't worry about the follow-up radiation! I have lung cancer and I have lost track of the CT's. In my case they need to track to progression, in your case they need to keep a close eye on metastasis. If this moves elsewhere, you need to know early! Normally the CT is, Gary correct me here, once a year. You had a PET which had questionable results and you need to follow-up. You will never notice the extra rads.

Glenn

Thanks for your comments. I realize your probably correct in that the risks of spead are more than the risks of the ct scan. I will be making that appointment.

Mica