title: Computed tomography of the thorax. Current perspectives.
abstract: With improvement in computed tomography (CT) technology, including faster scanning and images with better detail, the indications for CT of the thorax have expanded. In many instances, data collected on earlier-generation scanners no longer apply. This report is an update of CT scanning of the thorax and includes information on the role of CT in diagnosis when specific clinical syndromes and diseases are suspected. It also addresses controversial subjects, such as the role of CT scanning in the staging of bronchogenic carcinoma and the evaluation of the solitary pulmonary nodule, as well as suggesting guidelines for deciding when a CT scan of the thorax is indicated.
mesh_terms: D000784:Aortic Dissection / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D001014:Aortic Aneurysm / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D002283:Carcinoma, Bronchogenic / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D017023:Coronary Angiography; D003480:Cushing Syndrome / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D006961:Hyperparathyroidism / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D007818:Laryngeal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000556:secondary; D008477:Mediastinal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008479:Mediastinal Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D009157:Myasthenia Gravis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D010995:Pleural Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011013:Pneumonectomy; D011182:Postoperative Care; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D003074:Solitary Pulmonary Nodule / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D013896:Thoracic Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014133:Tracheal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging