As per research by the World Health Organization, lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the world. Despite the awareness campaigns, this deadly disease keeps on spreading and affecting millions of lives around the globe. In some cases, it gets diagnosed at an advanced stage when there are not many options available for the treatment. In that regard, the early diagnosis of cancer plays an active role in the treatment. Not only this but as per some studies, the early diagnosis of cancer increases the life expectancy of the person by 40% to 50%. In this role, we will explore the role of scans, including MRI scans, in the diagnosis of the deadly disease. 

Lung Cancer and Its Types: A Growing Concern 

Lung cancer is a chronic disease, and it stays with you until your last breath. The number of people recovering from cancer is low. It is not impossible, but the possibility lies with many problems and suffering. In that regard, it is important to know about the types of lung cancer.  Basically, this refers to the abnormal growth of cells in the form of tumors in the lungs. The tumors may lie within the lungs or the surface. There are different causes of the development of cancer, and one of the top reasons is cigarette smoking. According to studies and experts, the main cause of the abnormal growth of cells within any part of the body is unknown. These tumors are of two types, including benign and malignant. 

Benign tumors, as the name refers to non-cancerous tumors, which do not spread to other parts of the body. However, malignant tumors are the opposite of benign and they spread quickly in the body. 

In addition to this, the two broad categories of lung cancer include the following: 

1. Small-cell lung cancer spreads quickly in the body. The main cause of this type is cigarette smoking. Its further types include small cell carcinoma and combined cell carcinoma.

2. Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common type of lung cancer, and it spreads slowly as compared to SCLC. Its further types include adenocarcinoma, large cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

What are the Limitations of Traditional Imaging?

One of the most effective ways of diagnosing and treating lung cancer is imaging. However, traditional imaging techniques and technologies have certain limitations in comparison to modern imaging technologies and techniques. Some of the limitations include the following: 

• Traditional Imaging techniques, including X-rays, expose the patients to ionizing radiation. These rays may increase the risk of cancer over time.

• X-rays are the best bones and bony structures. However, they do not offer clear images of soft tissues, muscles, and ligaments.

• Traditional imaging technologies create pictures from one or two angles. These kinds of images are not suitable for analyzing and evaluating complex conditions. 

• In addition, traditional radiology has limited diagnostic accuracy.  For example, traditional radiographs do not detect abnormalities within the bones if they are less than 50%. 

What is the Role of MRI in Lung Cancer Diagnosis? 

MRI scan is one of the modern imaging technologies that helps detect lung cancer. MRI, which stands for magnetic resonance imaging, helps both in the detection and treatment of cancer in different ways. MRI relies on radio waves and magnets to create detailed images of the lungs from various angles. It has a better soft tissue contrast than CT and X-rays. Furthermore, it also helps detect if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Lastly, it helps in diagnosing the cancer by assessing the likelihood of nodules being benign or malignant.

In addition to this, even during the treatment process, doctors often suggest an MRI scan to check the effectiveness of the treatment. 

Detection of Spinal Tumors and Other Complications through MRI

MRI scans not only help with the detection of cancer but spinal tumors as well. Apart from that, in order to detect any abnormality within any part of the body, doctors mostly recommend MRI scans because they offer insight into the organs, tissues, and other soft muscles.

Conclusion 

The risk of lung cancer keeps on increasing amid the rise in the numbers. However, it is important to take precautions, and if you are at risk, then you must go for screening. There are different kinds of screening. However, doctors recommend an MRI scan for initial screening as it offers an in-depth view of the organ and detects any abnormality. The reliability of the scan is also linked to the reputation of the lab. In that regard, ViaScan of Las Colinas is one of the best options as it has a good reputation and offers different scanning packages. You may also consult with your doctor for the lab.  for the best scan and lab.