Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare, life-threatening, flesh-eating bacterial infection that quickly destroys soft tissue beneath the skin. Left untreated, it can result in the loss of limbs or even death. A diagnosis is most often made through laboratory tests and diagnostic imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography (CT), and sonography. This case study demonstrates the use of sonography to assist in the detection and characterization of necrotizing fasciitis. In this case, CT provided the necessary diagnostic information to accurately diagnose necrotizing fasciitis. The prompt diagnosis for this patient facilitated expedited treatment in an effort to stem progressive damage to the affected limb.
Cardiac rhabdomyomas are the most common fetal cardiac tumor. They can be detected in the second and third trimesters. Rhabdomyomas are most commonly associated with the genetic disorder tuberous sclerosis complex. When associated with tuberous sclerosis complex, cardiac rhabdomyomas usually regress within the first few years of life, without complications. Symptoms depend on the size, number, and location of the rhabdomyomas. A case report of multiple cardiac rhabdomyomas that was found at 35 weeks’ gestation and is discussed.
Spigelian hernias are a rare type of lateral ventral hernia that arises through a defect in the spigelian fascia within the anterior abdominal wall. This type of hernia can be either congenital or acquired. Herniation occurs due to weakness or a defect in the transversus aponeurotic layer between the rectus abdominis muscle medially and the semi-lunar line laterally. Due to difficulty in accurately diagnosing spigelian hernias and the risk of strangulation of herniated contents, surgical repair is often recommended. A spigelian hernia case is presented in which sonography was used in the assessment and diagnosis of the abnormality. The case report highlights important diagnostic features for differentiating a spigelian hernia from other forms of abdominal wall hernia so that proper diagnosis and surgical repair can be accomplished.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) arise from mesenchymal tissue and represent the majority of gastric tumors. Diagnostic workup of GISTs is usually done through immunohistochemistry and imaging, typically not including sonography. A case is presented of a GIST that was initially identified sonographically with an unknown primary site. Sonography detected and characterized the mass, followed by the use of computed tomography to obtain additional information that led to the diagnosis. The use of both diagnostic imaging modalities allowed for accurate diagnosis and helped to determine the next step in proper treatment of the tumor.
A galactocele is a cyst that forms from the obstruction of a lactiferous duct within the breast. These cysts typically form when a woman is pregnant or lactating and are usually of periareolar location. Mammography and sonography are common imaging modalities used to detect these cysts. This case study presents the sonographic detection of a galactocele with an abnormal location and appearnace in the left axilla.
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