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A 67-year-old female asked:

Can a ct scan detect liver failure in metastic colon cancer?

2 doctor answers4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Paul Velt
Diagnostic Radiology 44 years experience
Signs of failure: CT can see the footprints of a failing liver. Ascites and pleural effusions can be seen. Yes metastatic disease as well. Laboratory studies will also confirm was the CT suspects
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Dr. Myron Arlen
Surgical Oncology 66 years experience
No: A CAT scan is used to visually define the extent of metastatic colon cancer in the liver should metastasis be present. Liver failure is a condition measured by functional abnormalities that occur within the liver usually due to parenchymal damage such as inflammation from hepatitis . Here one measures serum enzymes and the presence of elevated alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin in serum.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Mar 12, 2020

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