Computed tomography of the thorax in the diagnosis and management of malignant disease

Abstract The role of computed tomography (CT) scanning in the investigation of patients with intrathoracic malignancy has not yet been clearly defined. Current evidence suggests that it is the most sensitive diagnostic radiological imaging technique for identifying the extent of primary lung cancers and their relationship to intrathoracic anatomy. It is an advance in the staging of intrathoracic malignancy as it identifies adenopathy in the paratracheal region and the mediastinum more readily. Discovery of small (