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High-resolution CT of the chest (HRCT)

A High-resolution CT of the chest (HRCT) is a ct test of the chest. It shows fine lung detail: interstitial lung disease, bronchiectasis, COVID-19 changes. Typical effective dose 4 to 7 mSv, similar to about 1.5 to 2 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year).

General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.

SmartAnswer by DigiNepal SI

A High-resolution CT of the chest (HRCT) is a ct test of the chest. It shows fine lung detail: interstitial lung disease, bronchiectasis, COVID-19 changes. Typical effective dose 4 to 7 mSv, similar to about 1.5 to 2 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). What it shows: Fine lung detail: interstitial lung disease, bronchiectasis, COVID-19 changes. generated by SI from cited sources · general information, not a diagnosis · consult a health professional

Sources: SI health summary (own words); decoder imaging pack; RadiologyInfo.org and MedlinePlus as references only

What it shows

Fine lung detail: interstitial lung disease, bronchiectasis, COVID-19 changes.

Why it is done

Persistent breathlessness, abnormal X-ray.

Preparation

Remove metal objects. If contrast is used you may need to fast for a few hours; tell staff about allergies, kidney disease, diabetes medicines (metformin) or pregnancy.

Radiation & safety

Typical effective dose 4 to 7 mSv, similar to about 1.5 to 2 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long it takes

5 to 10 minutes. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.

Sample type

CT

Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.

Related conditions

entry-health-condition-copd

Where to get this near you

Care near you

Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.

Common questions

What does a hrct chest show?
Fine lung detail: interstitial lung disease, bronchiectasis, COVID-19 changes.

Why is a hrct chest done?
Persistent breathlessness, abnormal X-ray.

How do I prepare for a hrct chest?
Remove metal objects. If contrast is used you may need to fast for a few hours; tell staff about allergies, kidney disease, diabetes medicines (metformin) or pregnancy.

Does a hrct chest use radiation?
Typical effective dose 4 to 7 mSv, similar to about 1.5 to 2 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long does a hrct chest take?
5 to 10 minutes

Why is High-resolution CT of the chest (HRCT) done?
Persistent breathlessness, abnormal X-ray.

How do I prepare for High-resolution CT of the chest (HRCT)?
Remove metal objects. If contrast is used you may need to fast for a few hours; tell staff about allergies, kidney disease, diabetes medicines (metformin) or pregnancy.

Is High-resolution CT of the chest (HRCT) safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 4 to 7 mSv, similar to about 1.5 to 2 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

SI text CC BY 4.0; RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA) and MedlinePlus linked as references only, no text copied.

Sources: SI health summary (own words); decoder imaging pack; RadiologyInfo.org and MedlinePlus as references only

Emergency — call102