What is a chest CT scan used for?

A chest CT scan is primarily used to provide a detailed image of the lungs and the structures within the chest cavity. This imaging technique allows healthcare providers to visualize the lungs in great detail, helping in the diagnosis of various conditions such as pneumonia, lung tumors, and interstitial lung disease. The high-resolution images produced by a CT scan exceed those from standard X-rays, offering a clearer view of lung anatomy and pathology, which is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

While the other options touch on important aspects of cardiovascular and pulmonary health, they do not specifically represent the primary function of a chest CT scan. For example, detecting heart problems and assessing blood flow in the heart are typically functions of different imaging modalities, such as echocardiograms or cardiac MRIs, rather than chest CT scans. Additionally, a routine check of lung capacity is generally performed through pulmonary function tests rather than imaging studies. Therefore, the focus on detailed lung imaging correctly identifies the primary use of a chest CT scan.