The value of computed tomography in the follow-up study of lung cancer and mediastinal tumors

Abstract

Computed tomography (CT) was performed to follow up tumor responses to conservative therapy in 29 cases of lung cancer or mediastinal tumors, and the tomograms obtained were compared-with conventional roentgenograms. The regression rates of tumors in the mediastinum and thoracic wall could be accurately assessed by CT scanning with rapid intravenous administration of contrast medium and not by conventional X-ray examination. The former technique was thus favorably compared with the latter. In addition, CT was useful for the early detection of radiation pneumonitis. However, it was not necessarily useful in the follow-up of tumors in homogeneous shadows of atelectasis or obstructive pneumonitis caused by bronchial obstruction.