Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
healthy cells. MRI is far superior to X rays in evaluating soft tissue
structures, especially the brain, nasal passages and intervertebral disks.
MRI technology is expensive but is becoming more widely avail-
able in veterinary medicine. Patients must be restrained with anesthesia
to obtain a diagnostic scan, but they are not exposed to significant radi-
ation as with a CT scan (see next section).
COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
A CAT or CT scan uses rotating X-ray beams captured on a detector
to “slice” through the body and examine internal structures. CT scan-
ning is much more sensitive than conventional X rays for evaluating soft
tissue structures, but patients are exposed to more radiation. CT scans
provide more information about bony structures and acute bleeding
than do MRI scans.
The most advanced CT scanners are able to produce three-
dimensional images of the body. CT scans are expensive but, like MRIs,
they are becoming more widely available in veterinary medicine.
NUCLEAR IMAGING
Radioactive compounds can be administered internally and used as a
diagnostic tool. Scintigraphy creates an image of the way certain struc-
tures within the body take up radioactive compounds.This information
can demonstrate the size, shape and location of certain conditions. In
veterinary medicine, scintigraphy is performed at some specialty cen-
ters and veterinary colleges.
The most common uses of scintigraphy with cats are to evaluate
problems with the bones (chronic lameness or bone tumors that are not
visible on X rays), portal shunts (abnormal blood flow through the
liver), blood flow through the kidneys and thyroid disease.
TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES ARE AMAZING!
Our cats are able to benefit from human medical advances to aid in
diagnosing their diseases.Today, reaching a definitive diagnosis is possi-
ble in almost all instances, but the costs involved and the availability of
testing are significant limitations. Unfortunately, even if getting the
answer is possible, treatment may not be. Each cat and situation is
unique, so work with your veterinarian to provide the best practical
health care.
