A spiral CT with contrast dye can be used for the diagnosis of which condition?

A spiral CT with contrast dye is particularly effective for diagnosing pulmonary embolism because it provides detailed images of the pulmonary arteries. The use of contrast dye enhances visibility, allowing healthcare providers to identify blockages or clots in the blood vessels of the lungs. This technique is crucial for accurately assessing pulmonary embolism, as timely diagnosis can significantly impact treatment decisions and patient outcomes.

In contrast, cardiac arrest would not be diagnosed using a CT scan but rather through clinical assessment and monitoring of heart activity. While brain tumors can be evaluated by CT imaging, especially with the use of contrast, a spiral CT is not typically the first-line tool for this condition. Instead, MRI is often preferred for detailed brain imaging. Pneumonia may be visible on a CT scan, but the diagnosis is generally made based on clinical presentation and chest X-ray findings rather than necessitating a spiral CT with contrast. Thus, the specificity and usefulness of spiral CT with contrast dye in imaging pulmonary arteries make it the most appropriate choice for diagnosing pulmonary embolism.