Computed tomography in detecting bone metastases of breast carcinoma. Is it better than plain x-ray?

Objective: To compare 5mm slice computerized tomography (CT) and conventional x-ray (XR) in the detection of bone metastases in breast carcinoma patients.

Methods: Ninety-eight female breast cancer patients treated in Ankara Oncology Hospital, Ankara, Turkey between September 1997 and March 2002 were assigned into 3 groups with respect to their Tc bone scan (Sc) results. Group 1 included patients with overt bone metastases, group 2 included patients with suspicious of metastases and group 3 were those patients with normal Sc results with back pain complaint.