Forum Discussion

arpie's avatar
arpie
Member
6 hours ago

An easy explanation to understand CT vs MRI

My memory is never the best - and I often have difficulty remembering the difference between a CT and an MRI!

Personally, I reckon EVERYONE diagnosed with ANY Cancer, should receive a full-body CT scan at the time of diagnosis, as a 'time capsule' of that moment  ... so that further along, if recurrences/Mets occur - they have something to compare the NEXT CT scan with - to see if they 'missed' something in the first one! 

Have you had a full-body CT scan?  I've only had specific areas scanned when I've been concerned about aches & pains since my diagnosis in 2018.  

CT scans use X-rays to create fast, 3D images of bones and organs, while MRIs use magnetic fields for detailed images of soft tissues, taking longer to scan.

Here's a quick & easy comparison!

 

And she explains it well in this 'Reel' too - check out her other Reels and 'Pics' of many things relating to BC!!

https://www.facebook.com/reel/26962219740085934

 

CT
mri

3 Replies

  • arpie's avatar
    arpie
    Member
    4 hours ago

    Wow Beatha​ .... that is good that you are able to advocate for yourself re your heart issues xx

    Yes, you DO feel rather 'cut adrift' after your treatment stops .... tho I did feel relief when able to stop the AIs!  

    And that 'What If' just never goes away either!   It is like a Damocles Sword, hanging over your head ..... possibly getting closer!!

    My motto is:  IF IN DOUBT, GET CHECKED OUT! 

    Take care xx

  • Beatha's avatar
    Beatha
    Member
    6 hours ago

    I think I agree.  I’ve just had a CT scan of my lungs that show some scarring/ fibrosis.  Nobody if due to radiation as not in the radiated area.  So off to yet another specialist.  As for MRI, can’t have them unless in hospital with a full cardiac team as they’d need to stop my heart device that keeps the heart pumping.  100% paced.  I think one of the worst aspects of cancer care is after care.  It’s very much you’re done - next.  And no matter how caring they are during you’re left to deal with the huge stress that arrives afterwards.  I’m lucky that I have a psychiatrist,  and I can afford it, by giving up other stuff.