Abdominal CT Scan question

[lizm100]

Hi there-

I've been having left sided pain in the area just below my (non cancer) breast. The pain starts in the rib area but goes down to about an 1-2" below the rib area. I've had 2 upper upper endoscopies which came back positive for the H.Pylor bacteria both times so I had 2 different types of treatments. Still have to do the breath test to be sure it's all gone this time. My symptoms improved only slightly after treatment so my GI doctor ordered an abdominal and pelvic CT scan scheduled for this Wednesday. Now I'm worried that the scan may not cover the right areas.

Does anyone know if the abdominal CT scan starts at the ribs at the area where the breast ends or does it start below the ribs?
If the scan starts below the ribs than I may need a chest CT scan too. I just don't want to drive my doctor crazy so any input would be appreciated.

Thank You,
Liz

[Mary Anne in TX]

I just had a chest & abdomen scan + complete body bone scan thru choice. I just have one more herceptin (sigh) treatment and wanted to know where things stood before that happened. I'd just tell him you want both done. Then it's done and you don't worry and you really know what's what! ma

[freyja]

I believe the abdominal CT covers the whole abdomen, hips to shoulders basically. After mine they were talking about things they saw in the lower lung and liver...nothing of concern, but it was pretty thorough.
Celeste

[AlaskaAngel]

If you want to see the chest structures with a CT, you have to get a chest CT. The abdominal CT will have some of the structures such as the lower ribs, but is intended for and covers the abdomen. (Likewise, if you want to see the pelvic structures you have to get a pelvic CT.) There is some overlap, but not a lot.

AlaskaAngel

[lizm100]

Thank You so much Mary Anne, Celeste and Alaska Angel for your input. I have a call in to my doctor who is off today, I'll have to think of what to say to convince her to add the chest ct scan. Thanks again :+)

Liz