Cancers detected by thoracoabdominal computed tomography in patients with nonspecific symptoms

INTRODUCTION Use of an urgent fast-track pathway comprising contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) is a recognised method for diagnostic evaluation of patients with non-specific symptoms. This study focused on a subgroup of patients with non-specific symptoms who are diagnosed outside of fast-track pathways. To investigate the cancer prevalence in patients with non-specific symptoms outside of fast-track pathways undergoing a thoracoabdominal CECT.

METHODSThis was a retrospective observational study including patients referred for a thoracoabdominal CECT. Patients with non-specified symptoms were included. All pathology reports were reviewed to confirm histopathological findings. Data were collected during a one-year period from the Department of Radiology, Vejle Hospital.

RESULTS A total of 238 patients were included; 125 (52.5%) women and 113 (47.5%) men. The median age was 69 years (range: 29-99 years). Fifty (21%) patients (25 men and 25 women) were diagnosed with malignant conditions by computed tomography (CT), all of which were confirmed by biopsy (median age = 68 years, range: 43-87 years). An additional ten patients had CT findings consistent with malignancies that were not confirmed by biopsy (median age = 86 years, range: 58-93 years).

CONCLUSION We found a 21% prevalence of cancer.

FUNDING none.

TRIAL REGISTRATION not relevant.