Why do I need a CT scan on my kidneys?

Why do I need a CT scan on my kidneys?

CT scans of the kidneys can help your healthcare provider find problems such as tumors or other lesions, obstructive conditions, such as kidney stones, congenital anomalies, polycystic kidney disease, buildup of fluid around the kidneys, and the location of abscesses.

Why would you have a kidney scan?

You may need a kidney scan if your healthcare provider thinks you may have abnormal kidney function or may need surgery for a kidney problem. Your healthcare provider may use the scan to see how well blood is flowing in your kidneys.

Can a CT scan show kidney infection?

A CT scan is not necessary to diagnose kidney infection, but it shows detailed 3D images of the urinary tract and kidneys to detect problems. A CT would also see if there is a blockage that needs treatment.

Is CT scan bad for kidneys?

CT contrast materials do rarely cause kidney damage and a skin disorder called nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) can be caused by the MRI contrast agents. Patients with poor kidney function are the people at risk for these side effects.

What is the difference between a CAT scan and a CT scan?

A CT scan is a form of X-raying that involves a large X-ray machine. CT scans are sometimes called CAT scans. A CT scan is typically used for: bone fractures.

Can a CT scan detect kidney problems?

CT scans of the kidneys are useful in the examination of one or both of the kidneys to detect conditions such as tumors or other lesions, obstructive conditions, such as kidney stones, congenital anomalies, polycystic kidney disease, accumulation of fluid around the kidneys, and the location of abscesses.

What can a kidney scan reveal?

A kidney ultrasound may be used to assess the size, location, and shape of the kidneys and related structures, such as the ureters and bladder. Ultrasound can detect cysts, tumors, abscesses, obstructions, fluid collection, and infection within or around the kidneys.

When to use a CT scan for kidney failure?

Kidney failure Defects you were born with A CT scan is also useful when another type of exam, such as X-ray or physical exam, is not conclusive. CT scans of the kidney may be used to evaluate the back part of the belly.

What kind of problems can a kidney scan show?

This test can help show how well each kidney is working, as well as problems that affect how both kidneys work, including: Blood flow problems in the arteries that supply your kidneys. Tumors or cysts. Pockets of infection (abscesses) Other kidney diseases.

What is the medical term for a kidney scan?

Doctors also call it a renal scan, renal imaging, or renal scintigraphy. Your doctor may recommend that you get this scan because it offers information that other tests — such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) — can’t provide.

How are ultrasounds used to diagnose kidney cancer?

Different ultrasound patterns can also help doctors tell the difference between some types of benign and malignant kidney tumors. If a kidney biopsy is needed, this test can also be used to guide a biopsy needle into the mass to take a sample.