Biopsy can now be done with a needle through the skin using CT imaging to guide the needle.

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The method, still somewhat controversial, involves guiding a specialized needle into a tumor using precise ultrasound or CT imaging, then hitting it with roughly one ampere of radio current, just enough to fry it.

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In fact, on Monday the American Heart Association issued an advisory warning that imaging tests, including CT scans, be used cautiously to minimize exposure to radiation.

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The technique, called Image Guided Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy Treatment uses imaging provided by a CT scan to target the tumour before a powerful but precisely shaped radiation dose is administered.

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For some people, imaging studies, such as CT scans, done for another reason, may catch a pheochromocytoma before it produces symptoms.

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To avoid that issue, Dr. Muller envisions the technology as part of a strategy in which people would first be identified as at risk through a genetic test and a noninvasive imaging test such as a CT scan before being referred for the spectroscopy analysis.

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Dr Zhou has set up a joint venture with Siemens, a German company that builds CT scanners, to develop his technology for diagnostic imaging.

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As an example, consider MRI and CT scanners: high-tech, high-cost medical imaging equipment that enable much more accurate diagnoses and treatment planning.

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More and more people are being diagnosed with these lesions as we use more medical imaging technology such as ultrasound, X-ray and CT scanning.

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Magnetic resonance imaging is especially useful for characterizing the inside of a cyst that is indeterminate after ultrasound and CT.

CNN: Could my kidney cysts be cancerous?