Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) has not been well explored in differentiation of malignant from benign breast lesions. The aims of this study were to examine the role of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in differentiation of malignant from benign tumors and distinguishing histological subtypes of malignant lesions, and to determine correlations between ADC values and breast tumors structure. This cohort-study included 174 female patients who underwent contrast-enhanced breast MR examination on a 3T scanner and were divided into two groups: patient group (114 patients with proven tumors) and control group (60 healthy patients). One-hundred-thirty-nine lesions (67 malignant and 72 benign) were detected and pathohistologically analyzed. Differences between variables were tested using chi-square test; correlations were determined using Pearson's correlation test. For determination of cut off values for diagnostic potential, Receiver Operating Characteristic curves were constructed. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Mean ADC values were significantly lower in malignant compared to benign lesions (0.68 × 10 −3 mm 2 /s vs. 1.12 × 10 −3 mm 2 /s, p < 0.001). The cut off value of ADC for benign lesions was 0.792 × 10 −3 mm 2 /s (sensitivity 98.6%, specificity 65.7%), and for malignant 0.993 × 10 −3 mm 2 /s (98.5, 80.6%). There were no significant correlations between malignant lesion subtypes and ADC values. DWI is a clinically useful tool for differentiation of malignant from benign lesions based on mean ADC values. The cut off value for benign lesions was higher than reported recently, due to high amount of fibrosis in included benign lesions. Finally, ADC values might have implications in determination of the biological nature of the malignant lesions.

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Atherosclerotic disease of extracranial part of carotid arteries primarily affects population of middle-aged and elderly, showing more associated risk factors. Sensitivity and specificity of CDU and MSCTA regarding plaque composition, the degree of stenosis and plaque localization are almost the same. These results and the fact that there are no adverse effects (high radiation dose) compared to MSCTA indicate that CDU should be the initial method in diagnostic algorythm for carotid arteries.

Introduction. Postmenopausal women are at a great risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures. Pathophysiology of osteoporosis. The two main factors causing osteoporosis are aging and loss of the gonadal function. Postmenopausal osteoporosis is primarily the consequence of estrogen deficiency, whereas senile osteoporosis is related to the natural aging process. Risk factors for the onset of osteoporosis. Risk factors include: age of 50 years and over. female gender. Caucasian race, genetic predisposition, short stature, under?nourishment, physical inactivity, amenorrhea, late menarche, early menopause, estrogen and androgen deficiency, alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, calcium deficiency in the diet, use of some drugs. Osteoporosis complications. Osteoporosis is the main cause of bone fractures in older population. Biochemical indicators of bone metabolism. A great number of bone formation and resorption markers are listed. Diagnostics. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measurements of the hip and spine are a worldwide standard in diagnosing osteoporosis. Dual X-ray laser heel measurement is an alternative to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Quantitative computed tomography measures thin layers by cross-sectional scans. Quantitative ultrasonography is a good method, but the measurements are not as precise as by other imaging techniques. Drug treatment of osteoporosis. Modern treatment of osteoporosis includes application of bisphosphonates, selective estrogen-receptor modulators, calcium preparations, vitamin D, monoclonal antibodies, hormonal therapy, estrogens, and phytoestrogens. Prevention. Lifestyle changes and non-pharmacological measures are most important for healthy bones. Physical activity, nutrition rich in calcium and vitamin D, avoidance of smoking and alcohol consumption are of crucial importance for people of all ages. especially for the older ones.