March 14, 2007 - Tests scheduled

We are currently waiting for Keira to have a few tests run that will determine her course of treatment. We have finally been scheduled for 2 of those tests. This Friday (3/16/07) Keira will have an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and a CT (computed tomography, also called a CAT scan).

These two tests will help determine the extent of the cancer, which will in turn help ascertain the surgical options for Keira. Until they discover the extent of the cancer nothing can be done for treatment.

Next week there will be at least 1 more test. I will write more about that as we get information.

Below you will find a brief discussion on MRI and CT if you want to know a little more about what Keira will be going through.

Thank you all again for your prayers and concern. It means so much to us

Jason, Erin, and Keira

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What is an MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radiofrequency waves and a strong magnetic field rather than x-rays to provide remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues. The technique has proven very valuable for the diagnosis of a broad range of pathologic conditions in all parts of the body including cancer. MRI requires specialized equipment and expertise and allows evaluation of some body structures that may not be as visible with other imaging methods.

Organs of the chest and abdomen—including thelungs, liver, kidney, spleen, pancreas and abdominal vessels—can also be examined in high detail with MRI, enabling the diagnosis and evaluation of tumors.

What is a CT?
CT (computed tomography), sometimes called CAT scan, uses special x-ray equipment to obtain image data from different angles around the body and then uses computer processing of the information to show a cross-section of body tissues and organs.

CT imaging is particularly useful because it can show several types of tissue—lung, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels—with great clarity. Using specialized equipment and expertise to create and interpret CT scans of the body, radiologists can more easily diagnose problems such as cancers.

Because it provides detailed, cross-sectional views of all types of tissue, CT is one of the best tools for studying the chest and abdomen. It is often the preferred method for diagnosing many different cancers, including lung, liver and pancreatic cancer, since the image allows a physician to confirm the presence of a tumor and measure its size, precise location and the extent of the tumor's involvement with other nearby tissue. CT examinations are often used to plan and properly administer radiation treatments for tumors, to guide biopsies and other minimally invasive procedures and to plan surgery and determine surgical resectability.

Why do both of these tests? Each test has certain benefits and limitations.

Benefits

MRI:

Images of the soft-tissue structures of the body—such as the heart, lungs, liver and other organs—are clearer and more detailed than with other imaging methods

MRI can help physicians evaluate the function as well as the structure of many organs; The detail makes MRI an invaluable tool in early diagnosis and evaluation of tumors

MRI contrast material is less likely to produce an allergic reaction than the iodine-based materials used for conventional x-rays and CT scanning.

MRI enables the detection of abnormalities that might be obscured by bone with other imaging methods.

MRI provides a fast, noninvasive alternative to x-ray angiography for diagnosing problems of the heart and cardiovascular system.

Exposure to radiation is avoided.

CT

Unlike other imaging methods, CT scanning offers detailed views of many types of tissue including the lungs, bones, soft tissues and blood vessels.

CT scanning is painless, noninvasive and accurate.

CT examinations are fast and simple. For example, in trauma cases they can reveal internal injuries and bleeding quickly enough to help save lives.

Diagnosis made with the assistance of CT can eliminate the need for invasive exploratory surgery and surgical biopsy.

CT scanning can identify normal and abnormal structures, making it a useful tool to guide radiotherapy, needle biopsies and other minimally invasive procedures.

CT has been shown to be a cost-effective imaging tool for a wide range of clinical problems.

Limitations

MRI: Bone is better imaged by conventional x-rays in some cases and CT is preferred for patients with severe bleeding. MRI may not always distinguish between tumor tissue and edema fluid and does not detect calcium when this is present within a tumor. In most cases the examination is safe for patients with metal implants, with the exception of a few types of implants, so patients should inform the technician of an implant prior to the test. The examination must be used cautiously in early pregnancy. MRI typically costs more than CT scanning.

CT: Very fine soft-tissue details in areas such as the knee or shoulder can be more readily and clearly seen with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The exam is not generally indicated for pregnant women.

So, both tests are needed in this case and offer the doctors a more accurate picture of what is taking place inside of Keira.


Taken from:
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=bodymr&bhcp=1
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=bodyct&bhcp=1