From Images to Evidence: Diagnostic Imaging as a Clinical Decision-Making Tool in Companion Animal Medicine

Dear Colleagues,

Advanced diagnostic imaging modalities are now widely available in companion animal practice; however, the translation of imaging findings into evidence based clinical decision making remains inconsistent. Traditional descriptive approaches are increasingly insufficient to meet contemporary expectations for diagnostic accuracy, prognostication and treatment planning. This Special Issue focuses on diagnostic imaging as a quantitative, outcome oriented tool that directly informs clinical management in companion animals.

We are pleased to invite you to present original research articles and critical reviews that move beyond image description to evaluate the diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic impact of imaging across modalities, including radiology, ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and nuclear medicine. Particular emphasis is placed on quantitative imaging, imaging biomarkers, multimodal integratio and validation of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and advanced post processing methods. Contributions linking imaging findings to clinical outcomes, treatment response, disease progression and animal wellbeing are especially encouraged.

This Special Issue aims to strengthen the clinical relevance of diagnostic imaging, promote reproducibility and support its integration into precision medicine frameworks for companion animals, by highlighting evidence based imaging strategies and standardized methodologies.

In this Special Issue, original research articles, including relevant case series and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:
1.    Quantitative and functional imaging biomarkers in companion animals
2.    Diagnostic imaging for prognosis and treatment selection
3.    Multimodal imaging strategies in complex or chronic disease
4.    Imaging based assessment of treatment response and disease progression
5.    Validation and clinical implementation of AI assisted imaging tools
6.    Reproducibility, standardization and reference ranges in veterinary imaging
7.    Imaging guided interventions and outcome evaluation
8.    Ethical and welfare implications of advanced diagnostic imaging

I look forward to receiving your contributions! 

Prof. Dr. Cláudia S. Baptista
Guest Editor

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