Authors' objectives:

This review aims to assess the available evidence on the effectiveness of computed tomography screening for lung cancer.

Authors' recommendations: With regard to helical CT screening for lung cancer, the ICSI Technology Assessment Committee finds that: Given the unknown cost of following the high number of false-positive cases, the lack of long-term survival data, and the high morbidity associated with follow-up procedures for a positive CT scan, routine use of CT for screening cannot be recommended. Helical CT enables the detection of early stage tumors. Although early stage tumors have a higher five-year survival rate, there is no study directly linking helical CT with improved survival. (Conclusion Grade IV) Screening with chest radiography does not result in decreased mortality. Low-dose helical CT is superior to chest radiography in the rate of detection of lung cancer, especially at an early stage. At present, there is no evidence of a decrease in mortality with CT screening. (Conclusion Grade I) Low-dose helical CT screening is technically a safe procedure; the risks are related to a false-negative or a false-positive diagnosis.

Authors' methods: Review

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.icsi.org/index.asp

Year Published: 2001

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: United States

Organisation Name: Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement

Contact Address: 8009 34th Avenue South, Suite 1200, Bloomington, MN, USA. Tel: +1 952 814 7060; Fax: +1 952 858 9675

Contact Name: icsi.info@icsi.org

Contact Email: icsi.info@icsi.org

Copyright: Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement (ICSI)