LDCT
Medical abbreviation · Medical Imaging
| Stands for | Low-dose computed tomography |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
LDCT stands for Low-dose computed tomography, a medical imaging abbreviation.
Chest CT acquired at a fraction of standard radiation dose and used for annual lung cancer screening. The US Preventive Services Task Force (2021) recommends it for adults aged 50 to 80 with at least a 20 pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years.
Example: Annual LDCT shows a stable 4 mm solid nodule: Lung-RADS 2.
Usage notes
The National Lung Screening Trial (2011) found about a 20 percent reduction in lung cancer deaths with LDCT compared with chest X-ray. Results are reported in Lung-RADS categories that dictate follow-up. Medicare requires a shared decision-making visit before the first screening scan.
Related abbreviations
More medical imaging abbreviations
- GBCA – Gadolinium-based contrast agent
- HRCT – High-resolution computed tomography
- HSG – Hysterosalpingogram
- HU – Hounsfield unit
- IVP – Intravenous pyelogram
- Lat – Lateral
- LI-RADS – Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System
- Lung-RADS – Lung CT Screening Reporting and Data System
- MBS – Modified barium swallow
- MR – Magnetic resonance
- MRA – Magnetic resonance angiography
- MRI – Magnetic resonance imaging
See all 58 medical imaging abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.