Is CT scan necessary?

[sk8flo]

Saw pulmonologist last February (winter) for acute onset of SOBE.  FEV1 53%, DO 30%.  He recommended CT scan and echocardiogram.  I'm 63 female 112# 5'3"  I also see a rheumotologist for UCTD and am on Placquenil and prednisone (5 mg or less QD during flares.)  Was put on Spiriva and Symbicort.  Had to stop Spiriva due to intolerable cholinergic effects.  Am fine so far with just the Symbicort.  Talked with Rheumy about value of CT scan and if it would change any of the treatments.  He felt no.  To me is just seems like a very expensive test and wouldn't really change anything.  I don't have any clinical signs at this time of PH.

I still grapple with thought of having it but I just don't want to dwell on it......
Anyone have any thoughts about the value of this?

[allmymarbles]

I agree with caregiver222. The scan won't tell your doctor more than he already knows.

[sk8flo]

Thanks for your comment and advice.

[caregiver222]

A CT scan is inappropriate.  

The scan involves a high level of radiation and does not provide good enough information.

If you decide on a scan, a 3T MRI would be far better with less risk.

Whether or not you need one is a judgment call.

Basically, he is guarding against a malpractice tort, in the remote possibility there is something structurally wrong that he missed.