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What Is The Difference Between An MRI And CT Scan?

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Posted on Tue, 13 Oct 2015
Question: Hi Doc,

After my mother's sudden demise, due to cancer which was detected only via Chest & abdomen CT scan, I have become very paranoid.

Though me and my wife are not experiencing any major health issues, however, I still want a preventive CT or MRI of Brain, Chest and Full Abdomen or whatever else is required.

I know If I go to physician or any doctor, he/she will say that these tests are not required, as we are not facing any major challenges.

The MRI Centers will not do these tests unless I have a valid prescription and even if they do, who will review the reports?

What is the difference between MRI and CT Scan?

Do you think that my concern is valid and these tests can help me getting releaved from tension? If yes, could you please prescribe in a letter head format that which tests I need to undergo?

Lastly, where can I get these reports checked? To be very XXXXXXX I dont believe the paper report accompanying the MRI/CT Scans. I want some one to look at the film and review the report thoroughly.

Please review my inputs and advise.

Looking forward to your response.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (56 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
In majority of cases,we can detect abnormality without CT scan or MRI.

Detailed Answer:
Hello

I can understand your concern as you have family history of cancer.
But there is no need to be so paniky.Both of you can go for regular medical check-up.
There are only few types of cancer which can only be diagnosed by CT scan or MRI. In fact,in majority of the cases we can get presumptive idea from basic investigations like blood and urine test,chest X-ray,ultrasound of abdomen etc.In majority of cases,we can detect abnormality without CT scan or MRI.
CT scan uses ionizing radiation which is harmful for our body.It should be advised only if it is indicated.
MRI is safe but it is costly and time taking.It is best for soft tissue study.
So,I suggest you to get medical examination regularly and proceed for higher investigations only after clinical assessment.
However,we can assess CT or MRI images/reports through this platform also whenever it is required,so don't worry about this.

Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Indu Kumar (13 hours later)
Thank you for response sir.

However, I am very afraid and still think that I should go for these tests. In my mother's case, CHEST XRAY and Whole Abdomen Ultrasound did not report anything abnormal.

I have been saving money for last 6 months and really want to go for these tests for myself, my wife and father. Please suggest the valid names of the tests and advise how Physical reports can be assessed by you using this platform?

Regards.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (9 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
You,your wife and father can go for whole body MRI for screening.

Detailed Answer:
Hello

As you want to go for investigations,I suggest for MRI.MRI is non hazardous as it uses non ionizing radiation.
You,your wife and father can go for whole body MRI for screening.Besides this,routine blood tests should also be done.

You can contact me by special request to divert query directly to me.If you find any difficulty then you can contact customercare.

Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Indu Kumar

Radiologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 6729 Questions

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What Is The Difference Between An MRI And CT Scan?

Brief Answer: In majority of cases,we can detect abnormality without CT scan or MRI. Detailed Answer: Hello I can understand your concern as you have family history of cancer. But there is no need to be so paniky.Both of you can go for regular medical check-up. There are only few types of cancer which can only be diagnosed by CT scan or MRI. In fact,in majority of the cases we can get presumptive idea from basic investigations like blood and urine test,chest X-ray,ultrasound of abdomen etc.In majority of cases,we can detect abnormality without CT scan or MRI. CT scan uses ionizing radiation which is harmful for our body.It should be advised only if it is indicated. MRI is safe but it is costly and time taking.It is best for soft tissue study. So,I suggest you to get medical examination regularly and proceed for higher investigations only after clinical assessment. However,we can assess CT or MRI images/reports through this platform also whenever it is required,so don't worry about this. Hope I have answered your question. Further queries are most welcome. Take Care Dr.Indu XXXXXXX