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Keywords = CT pulmonary angiography

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4 pages, 2338 KB  
Interesting Images
Anomalous Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery: Cinematic Volume Rendering Technique for Enhanced Anatomic Visualization
by Shuo Liang, Kun Zhang and Hong Zhang
Diagnostics 2026, 16(12), 1940; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16121940 - 22 Jun 2026
Viewed by 175
Abstract
Anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is a rare congenital anomaly with exceptional survival into adulthood. We present a 66-year-old woman with chest and back pain in whom ALCAPA was diagnosed using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) with curved planar [...] Read more.
Anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is a rare congenital anomaly with exceptional survival into adulthood. We present a 66-year-old woman with chest and back pain in whom ALCAPA was diagnosed using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) with curved planar reformation and cinematic volume rendering technique (cVRT). Photorealistic three-dimensional reconstruction provided complementary three-dimensional visualization that may facilitate anatomic understanding and communication of the anomalous origin. Conservative management was adopted given the patient’s age and well-developed collateral circulation. This case underscores the value of advanced CCTA visualization in diagnosing rare coronary anomalies in elderly patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging and Theranostics)
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16 pages, 3242 KB  
Article
Sequential Helical–Axial–Helical Triple-Rule-Out CT Angiography: Technical Feasibility and Territory-Specific Image Quality in the Emergency Department
by Yeon-Jun Kim, Gi-Yong An, Sung-Jin Cha and Sung Min Ko
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(12), 4640; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15124640 - 15 Jun 2026
Viewed by 164
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Triple-rule-out CT angiography (TRO-CTA) enables simultaneous evaluation of coronary, pulmonary, and aortic causes of acute chest pain, but conventional single-acquisition protocols may compromise vascular enhancement because of conflicting contrast timing requirements. This study evaluated whether a physiology-based sequential helical–axial–helical acquisition strategy could [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Triple-rule-out CT angiography (TRO-CTA) enables simultaneous evaluation of coronary, pulmonary, and aortic causes of acute chest pain, but conventional single-acquisition protocols may compromise vascular enhancement because of conflicting contrast timing requirements. This study evaluated whether a physiology-based sequential helical–axial–helical acquisition strategy could provide consistent tri-territory enhancement in emergency settings. Methods: In this retrospective single-center study, 71 consecutive evaluable emergency department patients (mean age, 66.6 ± 17.0 years; 33 women) with undifferentiated acute chest pain underwent TRO-CTA using a structured sequential protocol (pulmonary, coronary, and aortic phases) guided by individualized test-bolus timing. Objective image quality was assessed using vascular attenuation, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR); subjective image quality was independently graded by two radiologists. Results: Mean vascular attenuation exceeded predefined diagnostic thresholds in all territories (pulmonary 546.7 ± 237.8 HU [95% CI, 490.4–603.0]; coronary 438.8 ± 113.9 HU [95% CI, 411.9–465.8]; aortic 604.3 ± 190.9 HU [95% CI, 559.2–649.5]). Diagnostic interpretability was achieved in all three territories in every technically analyzable examination without repeat contrast-enhanced imaging. Median subjective image-quality scores were 5 (IQR, 4–5) for pulmonary, 4.5 (IQR, 4–5) for coronary, and 4 (IQR, 4–5) for aortic phases; interobserver agreement was good to excellent. Mean total DLP was 461.5 ± 122.5 mGy·cm. Conclusions: A sequential physiology-based TRO-CTA strategy is technically feasible in a tertiary emergency setting and provides consistent tri-territory enhancement. Because this was a single-arm technical validation study, prospective comparative and outcome-based studies are required to confirm its clinical impact. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Advances and Insights in Cardiovascular Imaging)
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6 pages, 1543 KB  
Interesting Images
Primary Pulmonary Artery Sarcoma: Multimodality Imaging of a Rare Intravascular Tumor Mimicking Pulmonary Embolism
by Dan Li, Zhongyu Liu, Shuo Liang and Hong Zhang
Diagnostics 2026, 16(11), 1687; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16111687 - 29 May 2026
Viewed by 302
Abstract
Primary pulmonary artery sarcoma (PPAS) is a mesenchymal tumor originating from the pulmonary artery, accounting for approximately 0.001–0.003% of all sarcomas. The early clinical symptoms are atypical, and diagnosis is often delayed, making the management of this disease challenging. The widespread availability of [...] Read more.
Primary pulmonary artery sarcoma (PPAS) is a mesenchymal tumor originating from the pulmonary artery, accounting for approximately 0.001–0.003% of all sarcomas. The early clinical symptoms are atypical, and diagnosis is often delayed, making the management of this disease challenging. The widespread availability of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT), and high-resolution echocardiography has significantly improved the diagnostic capability for PPAS. We herein report a 74-year-old female patient who presented with a 3-week history of exertional dyspnea without an apparent trigger. She had received anti-inflammatory therapy at another hospital for one week. Five days before admission, she experienced right-sided chest pain without apparent cause, which was respiratory-related. On the day of admission, laboratory tests revealed a slight elevation in D-dimer levels. Echocardiography showed an irregular, moderately echogenic mass at the origin of the right pulmonary artery. Enhanced computed tomography (CT) of the chest revealed a filling defect in the right pulmonary artery accompanied by bilateral pleural effusion. The patient was given heparin anticoagulation therapy. To confirm the nature of these lesions, a PET/CT scan was conducted five days after admission, which indicated hypermetabolism in the right pulmonary artery, suggesting primary pulmonary artery sarcoma. Due to the poor efficacy of anticoagulation therapy, the patient continued to experience breath-holding after physical activity. Subsequently, catheter-guided interventional angiography was carried out for pulmonary artery thrombectomy and biopsy, and histopathological examination revealed pulmonary artery sarcoma. Given the patient’s respiratory failure and heart failure, as well as the uncertain efficacy of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, interventional pulmonary artery thrombectomy alleviated the chest pain. Currently, the patient’s overall condition is stable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging and Theranostics)
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10 pages, 1326 KB  
Article
Can an Unenhanced Reduced-Dose ECG-Gated CT of the Aorta Replace an ECG-Gated CT-Angiography for Diameter Follow-Up of the Ascending Aorta?
by Thomas Saliba, Denis Tack, Nicolas Naccarella, Sanjiva Pather, David Rotzinger and Olivier Cappeliez
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2026, 13(5), 176; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd13050176 - 24 Apr 2026
Viewed by 563
Abstract
Electrocardiogram (ECG)-gated contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography (CTA) is the reference method for follow-up of ascending aortic aneurysms but delivers substantially higher radiation doses than ECG-gated non-contrast CT (NCCT). NCCT can be acquired at a lower dose while enabling measurements of the aortic outer [...] Read more.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)-gated contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography (CTA) is the reference method for follow-up of ascending aortic aneurysms but delivers substantially higher radiation doses than ECG-gated non-contrast CT (NCCT). NCCT can be acquired at a lower dose while enabling measurements of the aortic outer diameter. This study aimed to quantify the radiation dose of both techniques and determine whether a significant difference exists in ascending thoracic aorta diameter measurements between NCCT and CTA. Eighty patients who underwent ECG-gated cardiac CT for suspected coronary artery disease were retrospectively analyzed. Three observers measured the ascending aortic diameter at the level of the pulmonary artery in a plane perpendicular to the aorta on both NCCT and CTA images. Inter-rater reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients, and paired samples t-tests were used to evaluate measurement differences. Dose-length products (DLP) were collected. Median DLP values were 16.1 mGy·cm (interquartile range 11.8–25.1) for NCCT and 190.3 mGy·cm (interquartile range 120.5–298.9) for CTA. NCCT measurements were consistently larger than CTA measurements, with mean differences of 2.1 ± 0.8 mm, 2.6 ± 0.96 mm, and 2.9 ± 1.09 mm for the senior radiologist, junior radiologist, and resident, respectively (all p < 0.001). Inter-observer agreement was excellent (ICC = 0.99, p < 0.001). NCCT delivered an 11.8-fold lower radiation dose than CTA. NCCT may replace CTA for ascending aortic diameter follow-up if measurements are adjusted by approximately 2–3 mm relative to CTA-derived inner-diameter thresholds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (CT))
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17 pages, 573 KB  
Review
Imaging-Driven Risk Stratification and Endovascular Decision Pathways in Acute Pulmonary Embolism
by Fabio Corvino, Francesco Giurazza, Massimo Galia, Antonio Corvino, Pierleone Lucatelli, Antonio Basile, Marcello Andrea Tipaldi, Cristina Mosconi and Raffaella Niola
Diagnostics 2026, 16(8), 1200; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16081200 - 17 Apr 2026
Viewed by 943
Abstract
Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is increasingly managed as a dynamic risk continuum in which imaging findings guide therapeutic escalation rather than merely confirm diagnosis. The principal challenge still remains normotensive patients with intermediate–high-risk features, where early right ventricular (RV) dysfunction may precede overt [...] Read more.
Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is increasingly managed as a dynamic risk continuum in which imaging findings guide therapeutic escalation rather than merely confirm diagnosis. The principal challenge still remains normotensive patients with intermediate–high-risk features, where early right ventricular (RV) dysfunction may precede overt hemodynamic collapse. New trends focus on a trajectory-based model by integrating clinical, laboratory, and standardized imaging parameters into severity categorization. This review critically examines how imaging-derived markers influence risk stratification, escalation timing, and endovascular decision pathways in contemporary PE management. A structured narrative review was conducted focusing on the literature published between January 2020 and January 2026. PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for studies addressing imaging-based risk assessment, catheter-based reperfusion strategies, randomized trials, prospective registries, and guideline documents. Contemporary data consistently demonstrate that catheter directed therapies (CDTs) lead to rapid improvement in RV imaging surrogates and hemodynamic parameters. However, short-term mortality differences are uncommon in predominantly normotensive cohorts. Clinically meaningful signals instead emerge in the reduction in early clinical deterioration, the need for rescue escalation, bleeding optimization, and healthcare resource utilization. Imaging, as standardized reporting of RV strain on computed tomography pulmonary angiography and echocardiography, should be further embedded into escalation algorithms. In modern PE care, imaging functions as a trigger for escalation within multidisciplinary pathways rather than as a passive prognostic marker. CDTs should be interpreted as tools for trajectory modulation in selected intermediate-risk patients rather than mortality-reduction strategies. Future research should integrate imaging phenotyping, dynamic reassessment models, and organizational variables to refine patient selection and optimize outcome-relevant endpoints. Full article
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15 pages, 2565 KB  
Article
AI-Based Myocardial Segmentation and Attenuation Mapping Improved Detection of Myocardial Ischemia and Infarction on Emergency CT Angiography
by Martin Segeroth, Jan Vosshenrich, Hanns-Christian Breit, Helge Walter Anand Krebs-Fleischmann, Lorraine Abel, Markus Obmann, Shan Yang, Joshy Cyriac, Jakob Wasserthal, Ashraya Kumar Indrakanti, Michael Bach, Michael J. Zellweger, Alexander Sauter, Jens Bremerich, Philip Haaf and David Jean Winkel
Bioengineering 2026, 13(3), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering13030355 - 18 Mar 2026
Viewed by 776
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate whether an AI-based approach combining deep learning myocardial segmentation with attenuation-normalized myocardial mapping (colormaps) improves detection of myocardial ischemia and infarction on emergency ECG-gated CT angiography. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, 119 patients with acute chest pain who [...] Read more.
Purpose: To investigate whether an AI-based approach combining deep learning myocardial segmentation with attenuation-normalized myocardial mapping (colormaps) improves detection of myocardial ischemia and infarction on emergency ECG-gated CT angiography. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, 119 patients with acute chest pain who underwent ECG-gated CT angiography to exclude pulmonary embolism or acute aortic syndrome and invasive coronary angiography within 48 h were included. A deep learning model (nnU-Net) was used for automatic left-ventricular myocardial segmentation, serving as the basis for voxel-wise attenuation normalization to generate AI-based myocardial attenuation maps. Six readers with varying experience levels evaluated all cases for myocardial hypoattenuation in a multi-reader, multi-case design, with and without AI-generated attenuation maps. Results: AI-based myocardial attenuation mapping increased mean sensitivity for detection of myocardial ischemia or infarction by 12% [IQR 2–20%] compared with standard CT interpretation alone. Sensitivity improved by 15% [IQR 10–22%] in STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) and 11% [IQR −1–18%] in NSTEMI (Non-STEMI) cases. The AI-assisted approach resulted in the correct reclassification of 11% of patients and improved inter-reader agreement, particularly among less experienced readers, demonstrating reduced reader dependency. Conclusions: AI-based myocardial segmentation and attenuation mapping enhance the detection of myocardial ischemia and infarction on emergency CT angiography and improve inter-reader agreement. This AI-assisted image processing approach provides clinically meaningful decision support in acute chest pain imaging workflows. Full article
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25 pages, 1492 KB  
Review
The Role of CEUS in the Diagnosis and Follow-Up of Pleuropulmonary Diseases and Interventional Procedures
by Andrea Boccatonda, Alice Brighenti, Daniel Piamonti, Giulia Bandini, Giulia Fiorini, Luigi Vetrugno, Giampietro Marchetti, Esterita Accogli, Carla Serra and Damiano D’Ardes
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2292; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062292 - 17 Mar 2026
Viewed by 952
Abstract
Background: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) recently emerged as a valuable imaging modality for evaluating pleuropulmonary diseases. By combining morphological information from conventional B-mode ultrasound with real-time assessment of microvascular perfusion, CEUS can provide functional insights that improve diagnostic accuracy, guide interventions, and support patient [...] Read more.
Background: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) recently emerged as a valuable imaging modality for evaluating pleuropulmonary diseases. By combining morphological information from conventional B-mode ultrasound with real-time assessment of microvascular perfusion, CEUS can provide functional insights that improve diagnostic accuracy, guide interventions, and support patient surveillance. Methods: This review summarizes the current evidence on the use of CEUS in major pleuropulmonary disorders, including pneumonia, pleural effusion, pulmonary embolism, neoplasms, and COVID-19-related lung injury. The most relevant clinical studies and meta-analyses were analyzed, focusing on CEUS parameters, diagnostic performance, and integration with other imaging techniques. Results: CEUS enables the differentiation between inflammatory, ischemic, and malignant lesions through qualitative and quantitative analyses of enhancement patterns. Early and homogeneous enhancement is typical of inflammatory or infectious processes, whereas heterogeneous or delayed enhancement with early washout strongly suggests malignancy or ischemia. In pneumonia and pleural infections, CEUS identifies non-perfused or necrotic areas, guiding drainage and evaluating therapeutic responses. In pulmonary embolism, it reveals avascular consolidations corresponding to infarction, even when CT angiography is inconclusive. For peripheral lung tumors, CEUS assesses angiogenesis and vascular supply, correlating perfusion parameters with histopathology, and improving biopsy targeting. Furthermore, in COVID-19 pneumonia, CEUS can detect microvascular alterations related to thrombosis and fibrosis. Conclusions: CEUS is a safe, noninvasive, and radiation-free technique that provides unique real-time information on pulmonary perfusion. Its integration with conventional ultrasound enhances diagnostic precision, optimizes interventional guidance, and allows for dynamic monitoring of treatment response. Future developments in quantitative analysis, artificial intelligence, and targeted contrast agents are expected to further expand CEUS clinical applications in pleuropulmonary imaging. Full article
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14 pages, 1548 KB  
Article
Undiagnosed Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with COPD
by Zsófia Éreth, Márta Papp, Réka Faludi, Erzsébet Juhász, Enikő Horváth and Attila Kónyi
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(5), 1896; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15051896 - 2 Mar 2026
Viewed by 798
Abstract
Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) commonly coexists with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but may be under-recognised, since symptoms such as dyspnoea and chest discomfort are often attributed to lung disease. We hypothesised that coronary artery disease is highly prevalent in patients with [...] Read more.
Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) commonly coexists with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but may be under-recognised, since symptoms such as dyspnoea and chest discomfort are often attributed to lung disease. We hypothesised that coronary artery disease is highly prevalent in patients with COPD, even in the absence of typical angina symptoms. Methods: This study aimed to detect CAD in patients with COPD. We conducted a single-centre observational study, including 76 patients with no known previous cardiovascular events. To detect ischaemic heart disease, three methods were used, according to standard clinical indications: coronary angiography, coronary CT, and calcium score analysis on chest CT. The findings were categorised according to lesion severity and vessel involvement. Results: A substantial proportion of patients with COPD harboured previously undiagnosed atherosclerotic coronary disease (78%). However, most detected disease was non-obstructive atherosclerosis (56%), whereas severe stenosis was present in approximately one-third of patients (32%). Single-vessel disease accounted for 37% of cases, while the remaining patients exhibited multi-vessel involvement. Nevertheless, only a small proportion of patients had typical angina symptoms (11.8%), and the most frequent complaint was effort dyspnoea (50%). Patients not receiving inhaled corticosteroid therapy were more likely to have extensive coronary artery disease (χ2 (6)= 14.228, p = 0.027). Conclusions: These findings support our hypothesis that atherosclerotic coronary disease is often under-recognised in patients with COPD. ICS-containing therapy appeared to be associated with less extensive coronary artery involvement; however, this observation should be interpreted cautiously. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)
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17 pages, 533 KB  
Article
Diabetes Mellitus and In-Hospital Outcomes in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients: A Single-Center Eastern European Cohort Study (2020–2024)
by Ioana-Georgiana Cotet, Ana-Olivia Toma, Diana-Maria Mateescu, Adrian-Cosmin Ilie, Sorin Ursoniu, Dan Alexandru Surducan, Cosmin Gridan, Stela Iurciuc, Dragos-Mihai Gavrilescu and Cristina Tudoran
Medicina 2026, 62(2), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62020410 - 21 Feb 2026
Viewed by 898
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been consistently linked to severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and adverse outcomes; however, the extent to which DM independently predicts mortality and cardiovascular complications in real-world hospitalized cohorts remains debated, particularly in Eastern Europe. This [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been consistently linked to severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and adverse outcomes; however, the extent to which DM independently predicts mortality and cardiovascular complications in real-world hospitalized cohorts remains debated, particularly in Eastern Europe. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of DM on cardiovascular complications and in-hospital outcomes among adults hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Materials and Methods: We conducted a single-center retrospective observational cohort study including consecutive adult patients hospitalized with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection between March 2020 and December 2024 at the “Victor Babeș” Clinical Hospital of Infectious Diseases and Pneumophthisiology, Timișoara, Romania. DM status (type 1, type 2, or newly diagnosed diabetes) was defined using structured dataset fields. The primary outcome was in-hospital all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes included ICU admission, length of stay, pulmonary embolism (PE) on CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA), and a composite of in-hospital cardiovascular/thromboembolic complications. Multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for clinically relevant covariates (age, sex, BMI, vaccination status, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, atrial fibrillation, prior ischemic stroke, and admission creatinine). Results: A total of 395 patients were included; 98 (24.8%) had DM. Diabetic patients exhibited a high cardiometabolic burden (arterial hypertension: 83.7% vs. 77.4%, p = 0.242) and higher admission renal markers (urea: 55.6 [41.0–79.1] vs. 48.6 [39.2–68.0] mg/dL, p = 0.047; creatinine: 1.04 [0.76–1.52] vs. 0.88 [0.59–1.33] mg/dL, p = 0.008). In-hospital mortality was numerically higher in DM (9.2% vs. 6.7%, p = 0.560), as was ICU admission (7.1% vs. 4.7%, p = 0.503), without statistical significance. PE on CTPA occurred in 13.3% of DM vs. 11.4% of non-DM patients (p = 0.763). In univariable analysis, DM was not significantly associated with mortality (OR 1.40, 95% CI 0.62–3.19; p = 0.422) or ICU admission (OR 1.55, 95% CI 0.61–3.97; p = 0.356). After multivariable adjustment, DM remained not independently associated with mortality (adjusted OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.42–2.83; p = 0.854) or ICU admission (adjusted OR 1.19, 95% CI 0.42–3.36; p = 0.747). Conclusions: In this real-world Eastern European cohort of hospitalized adults with SARS-CoV-2 infection, diabetes mellitus was common and associated with significantly worse renal function at admission, but it was not statistically associated with in-hospital mortality or ICU admission after multivariable adjustment; however, the limited number of events and low events-per-variable raise concerns about model stability and potential false-negative findings. These findings support a risk-marker model in which adverse COVID-19 outcomes in diabetic patients are driven primarily by clustered vulnerability and organ dysfunction rather than diabetes status alone. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Diseases and Type 2 Diabetes: 2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 4401 KB  
Article
Pulmonary Artery and Vein Morphology as an Imaging Biomarker for the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Hypertension
by Nedim Christoph Beste, Alexander Christian Bunck, Jonathan Kottlors, Robert Peter Wawer Matos Reimer, Jan Robert Kröger, Thomas Schömig, Lenhard Pennig, Kenan Kaya, Carsten Gietzen, Nils Große-Hokamp, Martin Urschler, Horst Olschewski, Stephan Rosenkranz, Florian J. Fintelmann, Michael Pienn and Roman Johannes Gertz
Diagnostics 2026, 16(4), 619; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16040619 - 20 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 910
Abstract
Background/Objectives: To evaluate whether peripheral pulmonary artery and vein morphology improves image-based diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension (PH), in accordance with the recently updated hemodynamic definition. Methods: 229 patients underwent CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) within 30 days of RHC. Pulmonary vessels ranging [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: To evaluate whether peripheral pulmonary artery and vein morphology improves image-based diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension (PH), in accordance with the recently updated hemodynamic definition. Methods: 229 patients underwent CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) within 30 days of RHC. Pulmonary vessels ranging between 2 and 10 mm in diameter were extracted and labeled as either arteries or veins by an independently validated fully automated algorithm. Segmentation labels were validated by a radiologist. Results: The segmentation algorithm reached a median accuracy of 90%, aligning with the radiologist’s assessments. Vessel density of pulmonary arteries with diameters between 6 and 10 mm was higher in patients with versus those without PH (median [inter-quartile range]: 8.9 [6.1–10.8] 1/L vs. 6.2 [3.1–7.0] 1/L; p = 0.007). Artery-to-vein ratio was higher in PH (1.32 [0.93–2.06] vs. 0.88 [0.48–1.17], p = 0.004). The artery-to-vein ratio for vessels with diameters between 6 and 10 mm identified PH with an AUC of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.60–0.87). Combining this readout with the DMPA resulted in a numerically higher AUC (sole DMPA AUC: 0.79 (95% CI: 0.68–0.90)) vs. DMPA + artery-to-vein ratio for vessels with diameters of 6–10 mm: 0.81 (95% CI: 0.71–0.92); however, this improvement was not statistically significant (p = 0.4). Conclusions: PH is associated with an increased ratio of peripheral pulmonary arteries to veins within the 6–10 mm diameter range. Pulmonary vascular morphology may complement the established morphological criterion of MPA diameter and improve the diagnostic accuracy of PH on CT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Medical Images Segmentation and Diagnosis)
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20 pages, 3799 KB  
Article
The Influence of Long-Term Medications and Patient Conditions on CT Image Quality
by Ali Albweady
Diagnostics 2025, 15(24), 3148; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15243148 - 11 Dec 2025
Viewed by 648
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study investigated the influence of long-term medications and patient conditions on pulmonary arterial enhancement and image quality in computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA). A cohort matched for age was divided into two main groups: a medication group (Captopril, Albuterol, and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study investigated the influence of long-term medications and patient conditions on pulmonary arterial enhancement and image quality in computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA). A cohort matched for age was divided into two main groups: a medication group (Captopril, Albuterol, and control) and a condition group (obesity, COPD, and control). Methods: Temporal enhancement (Hounsfield Units, HU), area under the curve (AUC), and washout rates were analyzed alongside image quality metrics (signal-to-noise ratio, SNR; contrast-to-noise ratio, CNR). Results: The results demonstrated significant intergroup differences. In the medication group, Albuterol was associated with significantly higher peak enhancement (368.9 ± 16.3 HU) compared to control (327.1 ± 13.8 HU; p = 0.001), while Captopril showed significantly lower baseline HU (153.5 ± 7.3 vs. 185.3 ± 9.3; p < 0.001) and reduced total AUC. In the condition group, both obesity and COPD exhibited significantly lower peak HU values, slower washout rates, and reduced total AUC compared to controls (p < 0.0001). Consequently, SNR and CNR were significantly lower in the obesity and COPD groups (p = 0.001). Linear mixed-effects models confirmed significant group × time interactions for both medication and condition groups after adjustment for confounders. Furthermore, pulmonary arterial enhancement (HU) showed a very strong positive correlation with both SNR (R2 = 0.9956) and CNR (R2 = 0.9848, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The findings indicate that patient-specific factors significantly impact CTPA image quality. Albuterol was associated with peak vascular opacification, whereas conditions like obesity and COPD were consistently associated with reduced enhancement and inferior image quality. The strong correlation between HU and objective image quality metrics underscores vascular enhancement as a key determinant of diagnostic CTPA quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging and Theranostics)
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17 pages, 1596 KB  
Review
Emerging Techniques and Treatment Outcomes in Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformations Embolisation: A Narrative Review
by Chai Jin Lim and Yousef Shahin
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(23), 8455; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14238455 - 28 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1776
Abstract
Background: Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are abnormal vascular connections between the pulmonary arteries and veins, often leading to significant clinical complications. Embolisation has become the primary therapeutic modality for managing symptomatic PAVMs, with advancements in both technique and technology improving patient outcomes. [...] Read more.
Background: Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are abnormal vascular connections between the pulmonary arteries and veins, often leading to significant clinical complications. Embolisation has become the primary therapeutic modality for managing symptomatic PAVMs, with advancements in both technique and technology improving patient outcomes. Recent progress includes the introduction of precisely targeted embolisation techniques, such as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) guidance and three-dimensional imaging, enabling more accurate identification and treatment of complex, multiple, or peripheral lesions. Additionally, vascular plugs and microcoils have demonstrated superior performance in terms of lower recurrence rates and more complete occlusion of feeding vessels compared to traditional devices. The use of endovascular navigation systems has further enhanced procedural success. Aim: The objective of this review is to explore the latest innovations in embolisation therapies for PAVMs, emphasising emerging techniques, devices, and strategies that have refined treatment efficacy and safety. Methods: We performed a focused literature search to identify key publications relevant to current approaches in thoracic vascular imaging. Searches were conducted in PubMed and Embase using combinations of terms related to ‘thoracic imaging,’ ‘vascular,’ ‘Computed Tomography (CT) angiography,’ and ‘MRI.’ Additional articles were identified from reference lists of major reviews and landmark studies. Priority was given to publications from the past 10 years, with older key papers included when historically relevant. Selection was based on thematic relevance rather than formal criteria. Conclusions: Advancements in patient selection and pre-procedural planning, driven by enhanced imaging modalities such as CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound, have led to improved outcomes and reduced complications. While the benefits of embolisation are well-documented, ongoing research continues to explore the long-term outcomes, including post-embolisation pulmonary function, recurrence rates, and quality of life improvements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vascular Medicine)
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10 pages, 6571 KB  
Case Report
Swinging Mass Through the Pulmonary Valve: A Rare Case of Right Ventricular Myxoma
by Cristiana Bustea, Andrei-Flavius Radu, Paula Bianca Maghiar, Roxana Brata and Elena Emilia Babes
Life 2025, 15(11), 1750; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15111750 - 14 Nov 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 719
Abstract
Primary cardiac tumors are rare, with an estimated incidence of 0.001% to 0.3% in autopsy series. Most are benign, the most common being cardiac myxomas, which typically originate in the left atrium. Right ventricular myxoma is among the rarest primary cardiac tumors, and [...] Read more.
Primary cardiac tumors are rare, with an estimated incidence of 0.001% to 0.3% in autopsy series. Most are benign, the most common being cardiac myxomas, which typically originate in the left atrium. Right ventricular myxoma is among the rarest primary cardiac tumors, and its true incidence is difficult to determine, as most data come from isolated case reports. This paper aims to report a case of right ventricular myxoma in a young woman with a history of childhood malignancy and to discuss the possible association between the two conditions. Echocardiography, thoracic computed tomography (CT), and pulmonary CT angiography were used to assess the presence, location, and size of the tumor. The definitive diagnosis was established by histopathological examination. A 34-year-old woman, with a past medical history of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in childhood, presented with a dry cough and exertional dyspnea persisting for three weeks. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed a mass located in the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT), attached near the tricuspid valve and intermittently prolapsing into the pulmonary trunk. CT imaging confirmed the presence of the tumor in the RVOT and the main pulmonary artery. Because of the high risk of massive pulmonary embolism, the patient underwent urgent surgical excision of the tumor. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of cardiac myxoma. The postoperative recovery was uneventful, and the three-month follow-up showed no recurrence or signs of pulmonary embolism. The patient’s history of ALL raised the question of a possible association; however, a review of the literature revealed no previously reported link. In conclusion, right ventricular myxomas are extremely rare. The occurrence of cardiac myxoma in this patient following childhood ALL appears to be incidental. Further research is needed to determine whether ALL survivors have an increased predisposition to subsequent cardiac tumors. Full article
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17 pages, 3941 KB  
Article
D-Dimer/Fibrinogen Ratio and Radiological Severity Scores in Acute Pulmonary Embolism: Is There Room for a New Thrombus-Burden Marker?
by Francesco Tiralongo, Lorenzo Musmeci, Stefania Tamburrini, Giacomo Sica, Mariano Scaglione, Mariapaola Tiralongo, Rosita Comune, Corrado Ini’, Davide Giuseppe Castiglione, Emanuele David, Pietro Valerio Foti, Stefano Palmucci and Antonio Basile
Diagnostics 2025, 15(22), 2875; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15222875 - 13 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1547
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The D-dimer/fibrinogen ratio (D-d/F) has been proposed as a composite marker of fibrinolysis–coagulation balance. Whether D-d/F reflects CT-quantified thrombus burden and right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) in acute pulmonary embolism (PE) remains uncertain. Methods: Single-center retrospective cohort of consecutive adults with CTPA-confirmed [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The D-dimer/fibrinogen ratio (D-d/F) has been proposed as a composite marker of fibrinolysis–coagulation balance. Whether D-d/F reflects CT-quantified thrombus burden and right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) in acute pulmonary embolism (PE) remains uncertain. Methods: Single-center retrospective cohort of consecutive adults with CTPA-confirmed PE (January 2022–October 2024). D-d/F = D-dimer (µg/mL)/fibrinogen (mg/dL). Thrombus burden: Qanadli and Mastora indices. RVD: RV/LV ratio, septal bowing, and IVC reflux. Associations: Spearman’s ρ with Steiger’s Z for between-marker comparisons. Discrimination for Qanadli ≥ 40% and RV/LV ≥ 1.0 by ROC. Two exploratory logistic models predicted Qanadli ≥ 40%: Model-1 (age, sex, D-d/F) and Model-2 adding RV/LV. Results: Among 112 patients (mean age 65.4 ± 15.6; 60% men), D-d/F correlated modestly with Qanadli (ρ = 0.233, p = 0.013) and Mastora (ρ = 0.274, p = 0.0034); strengths were similar to D-dimer (no between-marker difference: Steiger’s Z both p > 0.5). D-d/F correlated with RV/LV (ρ = 0.335, p < 0.001) and with IVC reflux (ρ = 0.247, p = 0.0085). CT indices related more strongly to hemodynamic markers (e.g., Qanadli with RV/LV ρ = 0.571, p < 0.0001; Mastora with RV/LV ρ = 0.620, p < 0.0001). Patients with septal bowing had higher D-dimer (median 4.65 vs. 2.74 µg/mL, p = 0.0037), higher D-d/F (1.04 vs. 0.61, p = 0.0018), and higher clot-burden scores (both p < 0.0001). For Qanadli ≥ 40%, AUCs were 0.621 for D-d/F (cut-off > 0.795; sens 58.8%, spec 62.3%) and 0.618 for D-dimer (>1.894 µg/mL; 84.3%, 37.7%); AUCs did not differ (p = 0.93). For RV/LV ≥ 1.0, AUCs were 0.693 for D-d/F (>0.607; 83.8%, 52.0%) and 0.684 for D-dimer (>2.849 µg/mL; 75.7%, 54.7%); p = 0.72. In Model-1, D-d/F predicted Qanadli ≥ 40% (OR = 1.43 per unit, p = 0.043; AUC = 0.64). After adding RV/LV (Model-2), discrimination improved (AUC = 0.796), RV/LV remained a strong predictor (p < 0.0001), and D-d/F was not retained (p = 0.287). Conclusions: In acute PE, D-d/F tracks thrombus burden and RVD to a degree comparable to D-dimer, but effects are modest. CT-based markers—particularly RV/LV—better reflect disease severity and are more predictive of high clot burden. Risk prediction and incremental utility of D-d/F were not assessed and warrant prospective evaluation. Full article
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Case Report
Simultaneous Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement and Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair—The First Case in Serbia
by Darko Boljević, Jovana Lakčević, Mihajlo Farkić, Vladimir Mihajlović, Stefan Veljković, Armin Šljivo, Marina Lukić, Milovan Bojić and Aleksandra Nikolić
Diagnostics 2025, 15(21), 2785; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15212785 - 3 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1127
Abstract
Background and Clinical Significance: Concomitant severe aortic stenosis (AS) and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in elderly patients presents a significant therapeutic challenge. While transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) have become established minimally invasive treatments for high-risk patients, [...] Read more.
Background and Clinical Significance: Concomitant severe aortic stenosis (AS) and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in elderly patients presents a significant therapeutic challenge. While transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) have become established minimally invasive treatments for high-risk patients, simultaneous management of both conditions remains rare. Case Presentation: We report the first documented case in Serbia of a simultaneous TAVR and EVAR in a 75-year-old male with severe symptomatic AS and AAA. The patient had a history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, atrial fibrillation, prior radiofrequency pulmonary vein ablation, and pacemaker implantation. Echocardiography demonstrated severe AS with a transvalvular gradient of 116/61 mmHg, an aortic valve area of 0.6 cm2, and a left ventricular ejection fraction of 30–35%. Coronary angiography revealed 50–60% stenosis of the right coronary artery. Following evaluation by a multidisciplinary Heart and Vascular Team, a combined procedure was performed under general anesthesia via bilateral femoral access. TAVR with a Medtronic Evolut R valve was successfully deployed, followed by EVAR with satisfactory stent graft positioning and angiographic results. The patient’s postoperative course was uneventful, and he was discharged on the ninth day. At six-month follow-up, echocardiography showed optimal valve function, and CT identified a type II endoleak, which was managed conservatively. Conclusions: This case demonstrates the feasibility and safety of simultaneous TAVR and EVAR in a high-risk elderly patient, emphasizing the importance of careful preoperative planning and a coordinated multidisciplinary approach. Further studies are warranted to establish standardized guidelines for the management of patients with coexisting severe AS and AAA. Full article
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