The current reference standard to make a definitive diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection is the reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction assay (rt-PCR). However, radiological imaging plays a crucial role in evaluating the course of COVID-19 and in choosing proper management of infected patients. Chest X-ray (CXR) is generally considered not to be sensitive for the detection of pulmonary abnormalities in the early stage of the disease. However, in the emergency setting CXR can be a useful diagnostic tool for monitoring the rapid progression of lung involvement in COVID-19, especially in patients admitted to intensive care units. The rapid course of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the severity and progression of lung aberrations require a method of radiological evaluation to implement and manage the appropriate treatment for infected patients. Computed tomography (CT) imaging is considered to be the most effective method for the detection of lung abnormalities, especially in the early stage of the disease. Moreover, serial chest CT imaging with different time intervals is also effective in estimating the evolution of the disease from initial diagnosis to discharge from hospital. Despite having low specificity in distinguishing abnormalities in viral infections, the high sensitivity of CT makes this method ideal for assessing the severity of the disease in patients with confirmed COVID-19. In this review, we present and discuss currently available scales that can be used to assess the severity of lung involvement in COVID-19 patients in everyday work, both for CXR and CT imaging.
SummaryThis article presents possible applications of ultrasound elastography in musculoskeletal imaging based on the available literature, as well as the possibility of extending indications for the use of elastography in the future. Ultrasound elastography (EUS) is a new method that shows structural changes in tissues following application of physical stress. Elastography techniques have been widely used to assess muscles and tendons in vitro since the early parts of the twentieth century. Only recently with the advent of new technology and creation of highly specialized ultrasound devices, has elastography gained widespread use in numerous applications.The authors performed a search of the Medline/PubMed databases for original research and reviewed publications on the application of ultrasound elastography for musculoskeletal imaging.All publications demonstrate possible uses of ultrasound elastography in examinations of the musculoskeletal system. The most widely studied areas include the muscles, tendons and rheumatic diseases. There are also reports on the employment in vessel imaging.The main limitation of elastography as a technique is above all the variability of applied pressure during imaging, which is operator-dependent. It would therefore be reasonable to provide clear guidelines on the technique applied, as well as clear indications for performing the test. It is important to develop methods for creating artifact-free, closed-loop, compression-decompression cycles.The main advantages include cost-effectiveness, short duration of the study, non-invasive nature of the procedure, as well as a potentially broader clinical availability. There are no clear guidelines with regard to indications as well as examination techniques.Ultrasound elastography is a new and still poorly researched method. We conclude, however, that it can be widely used in the examinations of musculoskeletal system. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct large, multi-center studies to determine the methodology, indications and technique of examination.
SummaryBackgroundCerebral venous thrombosis is a relatively uncommon neurologic disorder that is potentially reversible with prompt diagnosis and appropriate medical care. The pathogenesis is multifactorial and the disease may occur at any age. CVT is often associated with nonspecific symptoms. Radiologists play a crucial role in patient care by providing early diagnosis through interpretation of imaging studies.Underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis can increase the risk of severe complications, including hemorrhagic stroke or death. The purpose of this study is to investigate radiological and clinical characteristics of cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) based on material from 34 patients under care of our hospital.Material/MethodsA total of 34 patients were diagnosed with CVT from August 2009 until March 2015. A clinical and radiological database of patients with final diagnosis of CVT was analyzed.ResultsPatient group included 22 women and 12 men at a mean age of 48.7 years (ranging from 27 to 77 years). In the study group 8 patients (23.5%) suffered from hemorrhagic infarction, whereas 16 patients (47%) were diagnosed with venous infarction without hemorrhage. Thirty patients (88%) had transverse sinus thrombosis.ConclusionsAccording to our study, CVT was more prevalent in women. Transverse sinus was the most common location. Among all age groups, the highest prevalence was seen in the fifth decade (n=14). Contrast-enhanced CT and MR venography were the most sensitive imaging modalities.
Development on new fast MRI scanners resulted in rising number of prostate examinations. High-spatial resolution of MRI examinations performed on 3T scanners allows recognition of very fine anatomical structures previously not demarcated on performed scans. We present current status of MR imaging in the context of recognition of most important anatomical structures.
SummaryIodinated contrast media (ICM) are commonly administered pharmaceutical agents. Most often they are used intravenously and intraarterially. Although iodinated contrast agents are relatively safe and widely used, adverse events occur and questions remain about their use, safety, and interactions. The most important adverse effects of contrast media include hypersensitivity reactions, thyroid dysfunction, and contrast-induced nephropathy. Radiologists must be aware of the risk factors for reactions to contrast media.Nonionic iodinated contrast agents can be divided into monomeric, low-osmolar, and dimeric, iso-osmolar classes. The osmotic characteristics of contrast media have been a significant focus in many investigations of contrast-induced nephropathy.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.