Saw cat scan of lungs for the first time, but not sure how to interpret them.

[eternalgardener]

Yesterday, I saw my chest cat scan for the first time. I was at a consultation with a neurosurgeon regarding a spinal cord stimulator. My rheumatologist told me I had only some minor scarring in the bottom of my lungs when he cut my prednisone from 10 MG to 5 MG, but the cat scan did not look like minor scarring. One lung had about 1/4 and the other had about 1/3. I will need to ask the pulmonary specialist to explain the cat scan at my next appointment. The neurosurgeon has ordered an MRI of my thoracic spine, but I don't know if it will show my lungs. Did your doctor show you the cat scan pictures and/or explain them?

[Dot_ChestILD Administrator]

Hello! Yes the Pulmonologist will definitely explain to you what the scaring shows. There’s different type of scaring in the lungs that can narrow what type of scaring they show.

[Sam_ChestILD Administrator]

I do routinely show patients their cat scans as a picture is more powerful than words. An mri is not a good image for the the lungs though

[eternalgardener in reply to Sam_ChestILD]

Thank you Sam, I will ask my pulmonary doctor to show me the cat scan results and explain them. My only appointment has been a video visit. I didn't see any test results, but I think the next appointment can be in person.

[Oshgosh]

Hi, I haven’t seen my CTscan,but the description horrified me.Hi have just posted on the british lung foundation about my recent experience around steroid reduction. I’ll put it on her when I have more energy.

I think. I’m lucky that 3 times a year I have a joint appointment with the ILD consultant and rheumatologist.i find this works well for me.

I hope things go ok for you