Role of bone scanning for evaluation of carcinoma of the cervix.

The value of X-ray studies and bone scan studies of cervix cancer patients was evaluated by a review of patient charts and bone scans or X-ray studies. No in situ cancer patients had positive studies. A low frequency of positive X-ray studies was observed ranging from 1% with stage I to 10% with stage IV disease. Recurrent carcinoma had 10% positive studies. Bone scans correlated well with positive X-ray studies but 10% false-positive scans were seen, mostly osteoarthritis. The bone scan was much more sensitive and appeared to detect an earlier stage lesion, usually associated with symptoms which with radiation and other treatments could follow a more indolent course than the patient with a positive X-ray study. The present study evaluates the appearance and value of these studies, the frequency and circumstances under which useful information was obtained, and what type of survival followed the establishment of the diagnosis.