MR imaging is becoming increasingly important in the assessment of patients with endometriosis. Its multiplanar capabilities and superior soft tissue contrast are particularly useful in the detection of deep infiltrating endometriotic implants. Endometriosis, defined as the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the endometrium, is among the most common gynaecological disorders affecting women in their reproductive age. The diagnosis and evaluation of the extension of endometriosis are difficult only with physical examination and laparoscopy. According to the authors' personal experience, a special MRI technique and some imaging guidelines regarding different anatomical localizations of endometriosis are discussed. This review is a brief presentation of current evidence on the diagnostic accuracy of MRI in the evaluation of endometriosis concerning other diagnostic methods, the limitations of MRI and its essential usefulness for preoperative diagnosis of deep pelvic endometriosis, and future perspectives in monitoring this disease.
SPECT-CT yields a high SLN detection rate; however, there is significant discrepancy in comparison with intraoperative findings, which limits its clinical utility. In addition, in the majority of cases SLNs are found in typical areas, which means that they can be reliably detected using an intraoperative gamma probe.
PurposeNecrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Abdominal radiography is currently an imaging modality of choice in NEC. Recently, a numeric scale of radiological signs in NEC—The Duke Abdominal Assessment (DAAS) was introduced. The aim of this study was to measure the intra- and inter-observer agreement on the radiological signs of NEC according to DAAS to access the feasibility of this scale.Materials and methodsWe have retrospectively analyzed 87 radiographs performed in a group of 43 high-risk neonates with suspected NEC. Radiographs were assessed by 6 independent observers: two pediatric radiologists, two radiology residents, and two neonatologists. Data were analyzed using κ statistics as a measure of intra- and inter-observer agreement.ResultsFair-to-good intra-observer agreement was noted for all but one of observers. However, with the wide range in κ values, we found only fair inter-observer agreement detecting signs of NEC according to DAAS. There was a higher intra-group agreement in radiology practitioners, with the highest among experienced pediatric radiologists.ConclusionHowever, with high observer variability in interpretation of all radiologic signs, we did not confirm that Duke Abdominal Assessment Scale could reliable facilitate reporting of abdominal radiographic findings in neonates with suspected NEC.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s00383-016-4022-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Thyroid disorders are common during IFN-α therapy. Previous epidemiological data seem to be underestimated. Important risk factors for IITD development are: female sex, elevated serum TSH concentration (≥2.5 μU/mL), positive TPO-Ab and increased blood velocity in thyroid arteries.
Evaluation with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is currently a gold standard for comprehensive posttraumatic assessment of the knee joint. Increasing availability of MR systems with stronger magnetic fields and new sequences results in higher resolution of images and thus allows imaging smaller and finer anatomical details, including different anatomical variations. This article focuses on anatomical variations of knee ligaments, which can mimics pathological structures. Well-known and less common ligaments that are sporadically observed and may raise the most doubt will be discussed. Familiarity with those variations of ligaments is indispensable for precise MRI reporting to avoid misinterpretation as meniscal tears, loose bodies or mass lesions especially in cases. This paper is addressed to both radiology and orthopaedics specialists. Illustrations show discussed ligaments in standard planes while, for less known ligaments, we add information on how to adjust planes to properly visualise a particular structure, which will hopefully facilitate finding and differentiating those structures in clinical practice.
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