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12 pages, 278 KiB  
Article
A Series of Severe and Critical COVID-19 Cases in Hospitalized, Unvaccinated Children: Clinical Findings and Hospital Care
by Vânia Chagas da Costa, Ulisses Ramos Montarroyos, Katiuscia Araújo de Miranda Lopes and Ana Célia Oliveira dos Santos
Epidemiologia 2025, 6(3), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/epidemiologia6030040 - 4 Aug 2025
Viewed by 143
Abstract
Background/Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly transformed social life worldwide, indiscriminately affecting individuals across all age groups. Children have not been exempted from the risk of severe illness and death caused by COVID-19. Objective: This paper sought to describe the clinical findings, laboratory and [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly transformed social life worldwide, indiscriminately affecting individuals across all age groups. Children have not been exempted from the risk of severe illness and death caused by COVID-19. Objective: This paper sought to describe the clinical findings, laboratory and imaging results, and hospital care provided for severe and critical cases of COVID-19 in unvaccinated children, with or without severe asthma, hospitalized in a public referral service for COVID-19 treatment in the Brazilian state of Pernambuco. Methods: This was a case series study of severe and critical COVID-19 in hospitalized, unvaccinated children, with or without severe asthma, conducted in a public referral hospital between March 2020 and June 2021. Results: The case series included 80 children, aged from 1 month to 11 years, with the highest frequency among those under 2 years old (58.8%) and a predominance of males (65%). Respiratory diseases, including severe asthma, were present in 73.8% of the cases. Pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome occurred in 15% of the children, some of whom presented with cardiac involvement. Oxygen therapy was required in 65% of the cases, mechanical ventilation in 15%, and 33.7% of the children required intensive care in a pediatric intensive care unit. Pulmonary infiltrates and ground-glass opacities were common findings on chest X-rays and CT scans; inflammatory markers were elevated, and the most commonly used medications were antibiotics, bronchodilators, and corticosteroids. Conclusions: This case series has identified key characteristics of children with severe and critical COVID-19 during a period when vaccines were not yet available in Brazil for the study age group. However, the persistence of low vaccination coverage, largely due to parental vaccine hesitancy, continues to leave children vulnerable to potentially severe illness from COVID-19. These findings may inform the development of public health emergency contingency plans, as well as clinical protocols and care pathways, which can guide decision-making in pediatric care and ensure appropriate clinical management, ultimately improving the quality of care provided. Full article
14 pages, 1906 KiB  
Article
Integrating CT-Based Lung Fibrosis and MRI-Derived Right Ventricular Function for the Detection of Pulmonary Hypertension in Interstitial Lung Disease
by Kenichi Ito, Shingo Kato, Naofumi Yasuda, Shungo Sawamura, Kazuki Fukui, Tae Iwasawa, Takashi Ogura and Daisuke Utsunomiya
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5329; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155329 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 388
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is frequently complicated by pulmonary hypertension (PH), which is associated with reduced exercise capacity and poor prognosis. Early and accurate non-invasive detection of PH remains a clinical challenge. This study evaluated whether combining quantitative CT analysis of [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is frequently complicated by pulmonary hypertension (PH), which is associated with reduced exercise capacity and poor prognosis. Early and accurate non-invasive detection of PH remains a clinical challenge. This study evaluated whether combining quantitative CT analysis of lung fibrosis with cardiac MRI-derived measures of right ventricular (RV) function improves the diagnostic accuracy of PH in patients with ILD. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 72 ILD patients who underwent chest CT, cardiac MRI, and right heart catheterization (RHC). Lung fibrosis was quantified using a Gaussian Histogram Normalized Correlation (GHNC) software that computed the proportions of diseased lung, ground-glass opacity (GGO), honeycombing, reticulation, consolidation, and emphysema. MRI was used to assess RV end-systolic volume (RVESV), ejection fraction, and RV longitudinal strain. PH was defined as a mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) ≥ 20 mmHg and pulmonary vascular resistance ≥ 3 Wood units on RHC. Results: Compared to patients without PH, those with PH (n = 21) showed significantly reduced RV strain (−13.4 ± 5.1% vs. −16.4 ± 5.2%, p = 0.026) and elevated RVESV (74.2 ± 18.3 mL vs. 59.5 ± 14.2 mL, p = 0.003). CT-derived indices also differed significantly: diseased lung area (56.4 ± 17.2% vs. 38.4 ± 12.5%, p < 0.001), GGO (11.8 ± 3.6% vs. 8.65 ± 4.3%, p = 0.005), and honeycombing (17.7 ± 4.9% vs. 12.8 ± 6.4%, p = 0.0027) were all more prominent in the PH group. In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, diseased lung area demonstrated an area under the curve of 0.778 for detecting PH. This increased to 0.847 with the addition of RVESV, and further to 0.854 when RV strain was included. Combined models showed significant improvement in risk reclassification: net reclassification improvement was 0.700 (p = 0.002) with RVESV and 0.684 (p = 0.004) with RV strain; corresponding IDI values were 0.0887 (p = 0.03) and 0.1222 (p = 0.01), respectively. Conclusions: Combining CT-based fibrosis quantification with cardiac MRI-derived RV functional assessment enhances the non-invasive diagnosis of PH in ILD patients. This integrated imaging approach significantly improves diagnostic precision and may facilitate earlier, more targeted interventions in the management of ILD-associated PH. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nuclear Medicine & Radiology)
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15 pages, 1336 KiB  
Article
Radiologic and Clinical Correlates of Long-Term Post-COVID-19 Pulmonary Sequelae
by Gorkem Durak, Kaan Akin, Okan Cetin, Emre Uysal, Halil Ertugrul Aktas, Ulku Durak, Ahmet Yasin Karkas, Naci Senkal, Hatice Savas, Atadan Tunaci, Alpay Medetalibeyoglu, Ulas Bagci and Sukru Mehmet Erturk
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(14), 4874; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14144874 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 440
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The long-term sequelae of COVID-19 pneumonia, particularly the persistence of imaging abnormalities and their relationship to clinical symptoms, remain unclear. While the acute radiologic patterns are well-documented, the transition to chronic pulmonary changes—and their implications for long COVID symptoms—require systematic investigation. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The long-term sequelae of COVID-19 pneumonia, particularly the persistence of imaging abnormalities and their relationship to clinical symptoms, remain unclear. While the acute radiologic patterns are well-documented, the transition to chronic pulmonary changes—and their implications for long COVID symptoms—require systematic investigation. Methods: Our study included 93 patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 pneumonia who were admitted to Istanbul Medical Faculty Hospital, each having one follow-up CT scan over a ten-month period. Two thoracic radiologists independently calculated semi-quantitative initial chest CT scores to evaluate lung involvement in pneumonia (0–5 per lobe, total score 0–25). Two radiologists and one pulmonologist retrospectively examined the persistence of follow-up imaging findings, interpreting them alongside the relevant clinical and laboratory data. Additionally, in a subcohort (n = 46), mid-term (5–7 months) and long-term (≥10 months) scans were compared to assess temporal trajectories. Results: Among the 93 patients with long-term follow-up imaging, non-fibrotic changes persisted in 34 scans (36.6%), while fibrotic-like changes were observed in 70 scans (75.3%). The most common persistent non-fibrotic changes were heterogeneous attenuation (29%, n = 27) and ground-glass opacities (17.2%, n = 16), and the persistent fibrotic-like changes were pleuroparenchymal bands or linear atelectasis (58%, n = 54), fine reticulation (52.6%, n = 49), and subpleural curvilinear lines (34.4%, n = 32). Both persistent non-fibrotic and fibrotic-like changes were statistically correlated with the initial CT score (p < 0.001), LDH (p < 0.001), and ferritin levels (p = 0.008 and p = 0.003, respectively). Fatigue (p = 0.025) and chest pain (p < 0.001) were reported more frequently in patients with persistent non-fibrotic changes, while chest pain (p = 0.033) was reported more frequently among those with persistent fibrotic-like changes. Among the 46 patients who underwent both mid- and long-term follow-up imaging, 47.2% of those with non-fibrotic changes (17 out of 36) and 10% of those with fibrotic-like changes (4 out of 40) exhibited regression over the long term. Conclusions: Initial imaging and laboratory findings may indicate persistent imaging findings related to long-term sequelae of COVID-19 pneumonia. Many of these persistent imaging abnormalities, particularly non-fibrotic changes seen in the mid-term, tend to lessen over the long term. A correlation exists between persistent imaging findings and clinical outcomes of long COVID-19, underscoring the need for further research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Post-COVID Symptoms and Causes, 3rd Edition)
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12 pages, 2032 KiB  
Article
Qualitative and Quantitative Computed Tomography Analyses of Lung Adenocarcinoma for Predicting Spread Through Air Spaces
by Fumi Kameda, Yoshie Kunihiro, Masahiro Tanabe, Masatoshi Nakashima, Taiga Kobayashi, Toshiki Tanaka, Yoshinobu Hoshii and Katsuyoshi Ito
Tomography 2025, 11(7), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/tomography11070076 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 333
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Spread through air spaces (STAS) is defined as the spread of tumor cells into the parenchymal alveolar space beyond the margins of the main tumor, and it is associated with worse clinical outcomes in resected lung adenocarcinoma. This study aimed to evaluate [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Spread through air spaces (STAS) is defined as the spread of tumor cells into the parenchymal alveolar space beyond the margins of the main tumor, and it is associated with worse clinical outcomes in resected lung adenocarcinoma. This study aimed to evaluate the preoperative computed tomography (CT) findings of primary lung adenocarcinoma in surgically resected T1 cases and to compare CT findings with and without STAS. Methods: A total of 145 patients were included in this study. The following factors were evaluated on CT images: nodule type (pure ground-glass nodule [GGN], part-solid nodule, or solid nodule), margin (smooth or irregular), the presence of lobulation, spicula, cavity, calcification, central low attenuation, peripheral opacity (well-defined or ill-defined), air bronchogram, satellite lesions, pleural retraction, pulmonary emphysema, and interstitial pneumonia; CT values (maximum, minimum, and mean); volume (tumor and solid component); and diameter (tumor and solid component). CT criteria were compared between the presence and absence of STAS. Results: Lobulation and central low attenuation were significantly more frequent in patients with STAS (p < 0.05). The mean CT value, and the volume, rate, and diameter of the solid component were significantly larger in cases with STAS (p < 0.05). A multiple logistic regression analysis identified central low attenuation as an indicator of the presence of STAS (p < 0.001; odds ratio, 3.993; 95% confidence interval, 1.993–8.001). Conclusions: Quantitative and qualitative analyses are useful for differentiating between the presence and absence of STAS. Full article
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15 pages, 1043 KiB  
Article
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes in Multisystemic Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) Associated with COVID-19: A 12-Month Prospective Study
by Viorela Gabriela Nitescu, Diana-Andreea Usurelu, Teodora Olsavszky, Ana-Maria Mihalcea, Andra Postelnicu, Ruxandra Florea, Simona Stanca, Iolanda Cristina Vivisenco, Madalina Elena Petran, Maria-Dorina Craciun, Carmen-Daniela Chivu, Alexandru Ulici and Coriolan Emil Ulmeanu
Microorganisms 2025, 13(6), 1405; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13061405 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 495
Abstract
Multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare but potentially severe condition that affects multiple organ systems. This study aimed to assess the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients diagnosed with multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) associated with COVID-19. A 12-month [...] Read more.
Multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare but potentially severe condition that affects multiple organ systems. This study aimed to assess the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients diagnosed with multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) associated with COVID-19. A 12-month prospective study was conducted at the “Grigore Alexandrescu” Clinical Emergency Hospital for Children, Bucharest. This study included children aged 0–18 years who were diagnosed with MIS-C, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) criteria. Data on age, gender, clinical and laboratory findings, treatment, and outcomes were analyzed. Follow-up evaluations occurred at one, three, six, nine, and twelve months post-discharge. Among 36 patients (47.3% female, 52.7% male; mean age, 9.9 years), fever and inflammatory syndrome were present in all patients. Other common symptoms included mucocutaneous (63.8%), gastrointestinal (52.7%), cardiac (47.2%), pulmonary (38.8%), and neurological (11.1%) manifestations. At admission, 14/36 were IgM-positive, while 34/36 were IgG-positive. Follow-up revealed sequelae in two patients, including coronary aneurysms and ground-glass pulmonary opacities. Although MIS-C can be severe, most patients had favorable outcomes with proper treatment. Few long-term, organ-specific complications were observed, highlighting the importance of systematic monitoring to ensure full recovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Disease Surveillance in Romania)
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12 pages, 2010 KiB  
Article
Radiological Insights into UIP Pattern: A Comparison Between IPF and Non-IPF Patients
by Stefano Palmucci, Miriam Adorna, Angelica Rapisarda, Alessandro Libra, Sefora Fischetti, Gianluca Sambataro, Letizia Antonella Mauro, Emanuele David, Pietro Valerio Foti, Claudia Mattina, Corrado Spatola, Carlo Vancheri and Antonio Basile
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(12), 4162; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14124162 - 12 Jun 2025
Viewed by 672
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study aims to distinguish radiological differences between primary idiopathic Usual Interstitial Pneumonia (UIP) and secondary UIP patterns Methods: This retrospective study included patients with HRCT findings consistent with a UIP pattern. Final diagnoses were established via multidisciplinary discussion and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study aims to distinguish radiological differences between primary idiopathic Usual Interstitial Pneumonia (UIP) and secondary UIP patterns Methods: This retrospective study included patients with HRCT findings consistent with a UIP pattern. Final diagnoses were established via multidisciplinary discussion and classified as primary UIP/IPF or secondary UIP, following the 2022 ATS/ERS/JRS/ALAT guidelines. An expert thoracic radiologist (>10 years of experience), blinded to clinical data, reviewed the earliest available HRCT assessing key imaging features: honeycombing (micro-, macro- or exuberant), fibrosis distribution (symmetry, anterior-upper lobe sign, etc.), ground-glass opacities (GGO), dilatation of esophagus. Additionally, AI software AVIEW Build 1.1.46.28-win Coreline (©Coreline Soft Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved). performed lung texture analysis, quantifying total lung volume and radiological patterns. Statistical analysis was performed to reveal results. Results: Among 53 cases, 31 were classified as IPF and 22 as secondary UIP cases. The expert radiologist achieved a diagnostic sensitivity of 82.9%, specificity of 889%, with a positive predictive value of 93.5%—in distinguishing between primary and secondary UIP. Primary UIP cases exhibited typical hallmark radiological features, including uniform honeycombing with cranio-caudal distribution (90.3%). Reticulations contributed significantly to the fibrotic texture, maintaining a consistent cranio-caudal gradient and axial symmetry (84.8%). Secondary UIP displayed more significant radiological heterogeneity, including patchy fibrosis with irregular GGO distribution (84.5% versus 53.33%); other findings—such as exuberant honeycombing, four corner sign and wedge-shaped fibrosis—were mainly observed in secondary pattern with respective percentages of 31.8%, 9% and 49%. Conclusions: Experienced thoracic radiologists, leveraging hallmark imaging features, play a critical role in improving diagnostic accuracy between primary and secondary UIP patterns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Respiratory Medicine)
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12 pages, 15501 KiB  
Article
Clinicopathologic Features of Isolated AFOP Nodules Radiologically Mimicking Malignancy in Post COVID-19 Patients: A Case Series Study
by Massimiliano Mancini, Lavinia Bargiacchi, Gisella Guido, Fabiana Messa, Beatrice Trabalza Marinucci, Erino Angelo Rendina, Mohsen Ibrahim and Andrea Vecchione
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(11), 3968; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14113968 - 4 Jun 2025
Viewed by 465
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Acute Fibrinous and Organizing Pneumonia (AFOP) is a rare pulmonary condition histologically characterized by intra-alveolar fibrin deposition and organizing pneumonia without hyaline membranes. This study aims to describe the clinicopathologic and radiologic features of isolated AFOP nodules presenting as solitary pulmonary nodules [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Acute Fibrinous and Organizing Pneumonia (AFOP) is a rare pulmonary condition histologically characterized by intra-alveolar fibrin deposition and organizing pneumonia without hyaline membranes. This study aims to describe the clinicopathologic and radiologic features of isolated AFOP nodules presenting as solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) mimicking malignancy in patients with recent COVID-19 infection. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed consecutive cases of histologically confirmed AFOP (n = 20) and organizing pneumonia (OP; n = 119) presenting radiologically as SPNs suspicious for malignancy from January 2021 to December 2023. Clinical data, COVID-19 status, radiologic features (including nodular characteristics, ground-glass opacity [GGO], and consolidation), and histopathological findings were collected and analyzed. Digital image analysis quantified the intra-alveolar fibrin content. Results: AFOP nodules showed a significant association with previous COVID-19 infection compared to OP (55% vs. 0.8%, p < 0.001). Radiologically, AFOP lesions were predominantly located in the upper lobes, frequently exhibiting a mixed pattern of GGO and consolidation within solitary nodules (8–28 mm diameter), distinctly differing from the predominantly lower-lobe homogeneous consolidations in OP. Histologically, AFOP was defined by prominent intra-alveolar fibrin “balls,” correlating significantly with radiological consolidation patterns (r = 0.991, p < 0.05). Regions of consolidation demonstrated higher fibrin contents compared to areas of predominant GGO. Conclusions: Isolated AFOP nodules presenting as SPNs post-COVID-19 infection strongly mimic malignancy radiologically, highlighting the necessity for multidisciplinary diagnostic approaches integrating radiological and histopathological data to avoid unnecessary interventions. Recognition of this rare but distinctive clinical entity is essential for appropriate patient management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Respiratory Medicine)
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15 pages, 7556 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Tomographic Findings in Patients with Influenza A (H1N1) and COVID-19
by Lourdes Noemí Vélez-Ramírez, Omar Jiménez-Zarazúa, Luis Ernesto González-Najera, Gustavo Adolfo Flores-Saldaña, Adolfo Valdez-Escobedo and Jaime Daniel Mondragón
Diagnostics 2025, 15(11), 1430; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15111430 - 4 Jun 2025
Viewed by 585
Abstract
Objectives: The objective of this study was to identify CT-based predictors of mechanical ventilation and mortality in patients with severe and critical viral pneumonia and to examine the association between imaging severity and outcomes in ventilated patients. Methods: We analyzed pulmonary [...] Read more.
Objectives: The objective of this study was to identify CT-based predictors of mechanical ventilation and mortality in patients with severe and critical viral pneumonia and to examine the association between imaging severity and outcomes in ventilated patients. Methods: We analyzed pulmonary CT scans from 148 patients with severe or critical pneumonia caused by COVID-19 (n = 98) or influenza A H1N1 (n = 50). Patients were assessed based on tomographic patterns, demographics, clinical severity scores (Charlson Comorbidity Index, SOFA, and APACHE IV), and biomarkers. Survival analyses were performed using Kaplan–Meier curves and multivariable Cox regression. Results: Bilateral, peripheral, and basal lung involvement was common across both groups. Ground-glass opacities (89.62%, p ≤ 0.001) and consolidation (61.54%, p = 0.001) were more prevalent in COVID-19, whereas pleural effusion was significantly more frequent in H1N1 (76.92%, p ≤ 0.001). COVID-19 cases more often presented with bilateral (96.94%) and peripheral lesions (77.87%). H1N1 patients were more likely to develop severe ARDS and require mechanical ventilation. In COVID-19, higher APACHE IV scores and pulmonary damage severity index were independently associated with increased mortality. Conclusions: Radiologic and clinical severity profiles differ between COVID-19 and H1N1 pneumonia. CT-based assessments combined with prognostic scores may aid early risk stratification and guide treatment decisions in patients with severe viral pneumonia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostics in the Emergency and Critical Care Medicine)
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13 pages, 690 KiB  
Review
Nitrofurantoin-Induced Pulmonary Toxicity: Mechanisms, Diagnosis, and Management
by Alan D. Kaye, Shivam S. Shah, Leon LaHaye, John A. Hennagin, Anna K. Ardoin, Alexandra Dubuisson, Shahab Ahmadzadeh and Sahar Shekoohi
Toxics 2025, 13(5), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13050382 - 9 May 2025
Viewed by 1823
Abstract
Nitrofurantoin, a commonly prescribed antibiotic for urinary tract infections, has been associated with rare but potentially serious pulmonary toxicity, which can present in acute, subacute, or chronic forms. Acute toxicity typically manifests in the form of hypersensitivity pneumonitis, which is characterized by fever, [...] Read more.
Nitrofurantoin, a commonly prescribed antibiotic for urinary tract infections, has been associated with rare but potentially serious pulmonary toxicity, which can present in acute, subacute, or chronic forms. Acute toxicity typically manifests in the form of hypersensitivity pneumonitis, which is characterized by fever, dyspnea, and eosinophilia, often resolving rapidly after drug discontinuation. However, chronic toxicity can lead to interstitial lung disease with progressive fibrosis, causing significant and sometimes irreversible pulmonary impairment. The pathophysiology of nitrofurantoin-induced lung injury is thought to involve oxidative stress, immune-mediated mechanisms, and direct cytotoxic effects; however, the exact pathways remain incompletely understood. Clinical diagnosis is challenging due to nonspecific symptoms that often resemble other respiratory conditions, leading to delays in recognition and treatment. Radiographic findings vary, with acute cases showing diffuse ground-glass opacities, while chronic cases may demonstrate reticular interstitial changes and fibrosis. The discontinuation of nitrofurantoin is the primary intervention, but corticosteroids may be beneficial, particularly in chronic cases with persistent inflammation or fibrosis, though their efficacy remains uncertain. Given the risk of long-term respiratory complications, heightened awareness among healthcare providers is essential for early diagnosis and intervention. Future research is needed to better define risk factors, improve diagnostic criteria, and explore alternative treatment strategies that mitigate the potential for pulmonary toxicity while maintaining effective antimicrobial therapy. This review explores the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and management strategies for nitrofurantoin-induced pulmonary toxicity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drugs Toxicity)
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9 pages, 5191 KiB  
Case Report
Rare Case of Grade 3 Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma in Left Atrium, Mitral Valve, and Papillary Muscle
by Silvia Preda, Kishore K. Gangangari, Robert Tiganasu, Andreea Liciu, Claudia Nica, Alexandra Voicu, Vlad Ichim and Horatiu Moldovan
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(9), 3053; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14093053 - 28 Apr 2025
Viewed by 487
Abstract
Background: Primary intracardiac tumors may be diagnosed incidentally, sometimes in the case of complications. Case Report: This case report presents a 64-year-old woman who was admitted to the emergency department with cardiac complications, including heart palpitations and shortness of breath. Initial [...] Read more.
Background: Primary intracardiac tumors may be diagnosed incidentally, sometimes in the case of complications. Case Report: This case report presents a 64-year-old woman who was admitted to the emergency department with cardiac complications, including heart palpitations and shortness of breath. Initial investigations revealed the presence of ground glass opacity in the left lung and significant mediastinal adenopathy. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) indicated severe mitral stenosis caused by a mass attached to the mitral valve, and the transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) confirmed the presence of a tumor, raising concerns about a myxoma with a high risk of embolism. The patient experienced transitory neurological dysfunction, and subsequent imaging uncovered a thrombus occluding the left internal carotid artery. An emergency surgical procedure was performed, including extracorporeal circulation and rapid deep cooling, to facilitate safe mass excision and carotid embolectomy. Histopathological analysis of the extracted tissue revealed undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (FNCLCC Grade 3). Following the surgery, the patient needed extended mechanical ventilation and subsequently underwent a tracheostomy because of her ongoing respiratory support requirements. Conclusions: Despite the complexity of the surgical intervention, the prognosis remained poor due to the aggressive nature of the tumor and neurologic complications. This case underscores the rarity of primary cardiac sarcomas, the challenges in diagnosis, and the need for prompt surgical intervention to mitigate risks associated with embolic events. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)
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11 pages, 2823 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Effects of COVID-19: Analysis of Imaging Findings in Patients Evaluated by Computed Tomography from 2020 to 2024
by Zeynep Keskin, Mihrican Yeşildağ, Ömer Özberk, Kemal Ödev, Fatih Ateş, Bengü Özkan Bakdık and Şehriban Çağlak Kardaş
Tomography 2025, 11(5), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/tomography11050049 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 907
Abstract
Background: This study aims to systematically evaluate the findings from computed tomography (CT) examinations conducted at least three months post-diagnosis of COVID-19 in patients diagnosed between 2020 and 2024. Objective: To determine the frequency and characteristics of CT findings in the post-COVID-19 period, [...] Read more.
Background: This study aims to systematically evaluate the findings from computed tomography (CT) examinations conducted at least three months post-diagnosis of COVID-19 in patients diagnosed between 2020 and 2024. Objective: To determine the frequency and characteristics of CT findings in the post-COVID-19 period, analyze long-term effects on lung parenchyma, and contribute to the development of clinical follow-up and treatment strategies based on the collected data. Materials and Methods: Ethical approval was obtained for this retrospective study, and individual consent was waived. A total of 76 patients were included in the study, aged 18 and older, diagnosed with COVID-19 between March 2020 and November 2024, who underwent follow-up chest CT scans at 3–6 months, 6–12 months, and/or 12 months post-diagnosis. CT images were obtained in the supine position without contrast and evaluated by two experienced radiologists using a CT severity score (CT-SS) system, which quantifies lung involvement. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS 23.0, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The results indicated a mean CT-SS of 10.58 ± 0.659. Significant associations were found between age, CT scores, and the necessity for intensive care or mechanical ventilation. The most common CT findings included ground-glass opacities, reticular patterns, and traction bronchiectasis, particularly increasing with age and over time. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the persistent alterations in lung parenchyma following COVID-19, highlighting the importance of continuous monitoring and tailored treatment strategies for affected patients to improve long-term outcomes. Full article
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13 pages, 3436 KiB  
Article
Predicting Visceral Pleural Invasion in Resected Lung Adenocarcinoma via Computed Tomography
by Chia-Cheng Kao, Hu-Lin Christina Wang, Mong-Wei Lin, Tung-Ming Tsai, Hsao-Hsun Hsu, Hsien-Chi Liao and Jin-Shing Chen
Cancers 2025, 17(9), 1414; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17091414 - 23 Apr 2025
Viewed by 606
Abstract
Background/Objectives: For thoracic surgeons, the extent of visceral pleural invasion is a crucial consideration in the surgical approach to adenocarcinoma; this invasion may influence the extent of surgical resection and predict prognosis. With advances in preoperative imaging technology, predicting visceral pleural invasion via [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: For thoracic surgeons, the extent of visceral pleural invasion is a crucial consideration in the surgical approach to adenocarcinoma; this invasion may influence the extent of surgical resection and predict prognosis. With advances in preoperative imaging technology, predicting visceral pleural invasion via computed tomography (CT) characteristics may be feasible. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between CT characteristics and visceral pleural invasion in patients with surgically resected lung adenocarcinoma. Methods: Patients with lung adenocarcinoma who underwent curative lung tumor resection (n = 643) were retrospectively included in this study between January 2011 and December 2015. Basic demographic CT images were analyzed by experienced thoracic surgeons and radiologists. Postoperative pathology reports were confirmed by experienced pathologists. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed for potential prognostic factors. Results: Potential visceral pleural invasion characteristics of preoperative CT included tumor size (cm), solid part size, pleural contact of arch distance, ground glass opacity (%), tumor shape, border type, distance from visceral pleura, depth, and invasion site. In addition, solid part size, ground glass opacity (%), consolidation to tumor ratio (%), tumor shape, border type, distance from visceral pleura, and invasion site showed statistical significance for prognosis. Conclusions: Increased precision of image interpretation may provide more predictive clues to improve the identification of visceral pleural invasion before operations. The extent of surgical resection may be more accurately determined, and systemic treatment may be administered earlier for those with poor prognostic factors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Informatics and Big Data)
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11 pages, 579 KiB  
Article
Low-Malignant-Potential Adenocarcinoma: A Histological Category with a Significantly Better Prognosis than Other Solid Adenocarcinomas at IA Stage
by Marco Chiappetta, Alessandra Cancellieri, Filippo Lococo, Elisa Meacci, Carolina Sassorossi, Maria Teresa Congedo, Qianqian Zhang, Diomira Tabacco, Isabella Sperduti and Stefano Margaritora
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(4), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32040217 - 9 Apr 2025
Viewed by 699
Abstract
Introduction: Low-malignant-potential adenocarcinoma has been defined as a type of non-mucinous tumor, which has a total tumor size measuring ≤ 3 cm, exhibits ≥ 15% lepidic growth, lacks non-predominant high-grade patterns (≥10% cribriform, ≥5% micropapillary, ≥5% solid), has an absence of angiolymphatic or [...] Read more.
Introduction: Low-malignant-potential adenocarcinoma has been defined as a type of non-mucinous tumor, which has a total tumor size measuring ≤ 3 cm, exhibits ≥ 15% lepidic growth, lacks non-predominant high-grade patterns (≥10% cribriform, ≥5% micropapillary, ≥5% solid), has an absence of angiolymphatic or visceral pleural invasion, spread through air spaces (STAS), necrosis and >1 mitosis per 2 mm2. The aim of this study is to validate, with regard to cancer-specific survival (CSS) and disease-free survival (DFS), the proposed definition of LMP adenocarcinoma in an independent external cohort of lung adenocarcinoma patients having undergone surgical resection, and having presented with a long follow-up period. Methods: Clinicopathological characteristics of patients who underwent lung resection for adenocarcinoma from 1 January 2005 to 31 December 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with ground-glass opacity (GGO) and part-solid tumors, minimally invasive adenocarcinoma (MIA), adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS), tumors ≥5 cm in size, nodal involvement and/or distant metastases, patients who underwent neoadjuvant treatment, and those who had an incomplete follow-up or a follow-up shorter than 60 months were excluded. The proposed criteria for low-malignant-potential adenocarcinoma (LMPA) were tumor size ≤ 3 cm, invasive size ≥ 0,5 cm, lepidic growth ≥ 15%, and absence of the following: mitosis (>1 per 2 mm2), mucinous subtype, angiolymphatic invasion, visceral pleural invasion, spread through air spaces (STAS) and tumor necrosis. End points were disease-free survival (DFS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). The log-rank test was used to assess differences between subgroups. Results: Out of 80 patients meeting the proposed criteria, 14 (17.5%) had the LMPA characteristics defined. The mean follow-up time was 67 ± 39 months. A total of 19 patients died, all in the non-LMPA category, and 33 patients experienced recurrence: 4 (28.5%) with LMPA and 29 (43.9%) with non-LMPA. Log-rank analysis showed 100% 10-year CSS for patients with LMPA and 77.4% for patients without LMPA, with this difference being statistically significant (p-value = 0.047). Univariate analysis showed a significant association with the cStage (AJCC eighth edition), both for CSS (p value = 0.005) and DFS (p-value = 0.003). LMPA classification did not show a statistically significant impact on CSS and DFS, likely due to the limited number of events (CSS p-value = 0.232 and DFS p-value = 0.213). No statistical association was found for CSS and DFS with pT, the number of resected nodes (< or >10) or the number of resected N2 stations (< or >2). Conclusions: Our study confirmed the prognostic role of LMPA features, with a low risk of recurrence and a good CSS and DFS. The criteria for diagnosis are replicable and feasible for application. The clinical implications of these findings, such as pre-operative prediction and surveillance scheduling, may be the topic of future prospective studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Current Status of Lung Cancer Surgery)
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13 pages, 1571 KiB  
Article
Circulating Tumor Cells from Surgical Manipulation Predict Recurrence and Poor Prognosis in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
by Akikazu Kawase, Keigo Sekihara, Noriyuki Matsutani, Masafumi Yamaguchi, Yujin Kudo, Makoto Endo, Tetsukan Woo, Yuichi Saito and Noriyoshi Sawabata
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(6), 2070; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14062070 - 18 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 795
Abstract
Background/Objectives: In our previous multicenter prospective controlled study (UMIN000018602), we investigated the impact of surgical manipulation on circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). CTCs were detected after surgery in four patients (4/29, 13.8%), although CTCs were not [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: In our previous multicenter prospective controlled study (UMIN000018602), we investigated the impact of surgical manipulation on circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). CTCs were detected after surgery in four patients (4/29, 13.8%), although CTCs were not present before surgery. These four patients had tumor cells leaked into their bloodstream by surgeons’ manipulation. We aimed to clarify long-term outcomes according to the presence of CTCs. Methods: Patients with cT1b-2N0M0 NSCLC scheduled for lobectomy were enrolled, based on the selection criteria of a consolidation-to-ground-glass opacity ratio (over 50%). Peripheral blood samples (≥3 mL) were collected before surgery (for pre-CTCs), during surgery, and immediately after pulmonary vein dissection (for post-CTCs). CTCs were isolated from these samples using ScreenCell®’s size-selective method. Results: From July 2015 to January 2016, 29 patients were enrolled, yielding paired pre- and post-CTC samples for all patients. Thirteen patients were pre-CTC positive, and post-CTCs were detected in 17 patients. Survival analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in recurrence-free survival between patients with and without post-CTCs (p = 0.043), while pre-CTCs status had no significant impact on recurrence (p = 0.226). Patients with post-CTCs had a significantly higher recurrence rate than those without (p = 0.043). Half of patients with post-CTCs but without pre-CTCs had recurrence within 5 years after surgery. Conclusions: Post-CTCs emerged as a significant predictor of recurrence following lobectomy; however, it could be possible for thoracic surgeons to prevent recurrence by improving surgical techniques for NSCLC patients with post-CTCs but without pre-CTCs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perioperative Management in Thoracic Surgery)
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14 pages, 4427 KiB  
Article
Ground-Glass Opacities in the Access Route and Biopsy in Highly Perfused Dependent Areas of the Lungs as Risk Factors for Pulmonary Hemorrhage During CT-Guided Lung Biopsy: A Retrospective Study
by Michael P. Brönnimann, Leonie Manser, Andreas Christe, Johannes T. Heverhagen, Bernhard Gebauer, Timo A. Auer, Dirk Schnapauff, Federico Collettini, Christophe Schroeder, Patrick Dorn, Tobias Gassenmaier, Lukas Ebner and Adrian T. Huber
Tomography 2025, 11(3), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/tomography11030035 - 14 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The risk of hemorrhage during CT-guided lung biopsy has not been systematically studied in cases where ground-glass opacities (GGO) are present in the access route or when biopsies are performed in highly perfused, dependent lung areas. While patient positioning has been studied [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The risk of hemorrhage during CT-guided lung biopsy has not been systematically studied in cases where ground-glass opacities (GGO) are present in the access route or when biopsies are performed in highly perfused, dependent lung areas. While patient positioning has been studied for pneumothorax prevention, its role in minimizing hemorrhage risk remains unexplored. This study aimed to determine whether GGOs in the access route and biopsies in dependent lung areas are risk factors for pulmonary hemorrhage during CT-guided lung biopsy. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 115 CT-guided lung biopsies performed at a single center (2020–2023). Patients were categorized based on post-interventional hemorrhage exceeding 2 cm (Grade 2 or higher). We evaluated the presence of GGOs in the access route and biopsy location (dependent vs. non-dependent areas) using chi square, Fisher’s exact, and Mann–Whitney U tests. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to evaluate risk factors for pulmonary hemorrhage. Results: Pulmonary hemorrhage beyond 2 cm occurred in 30 of 115 patients (26%). GGOs in the access route were identified in 67% of these cases (p < 0.01), and hemorrhage occurred more frequently when biopsies were performed in dependent lung areas (63% vs. 40%, p = 0.03). Multivariable analysis showed that GGOs in the access route (OR 5.169, 95% CI 1.889–14.144, p = 0.001) and biopsies in dependent areas (OR 4.064, 95% CI 1.477–11.186, p < 0.001) independently increased hemorrhage risk. Conclusions: GGOs in the access route and dependent lung area biopsies are independent risk factors for hemorrhage during CT-guided lung biopsy. Full article
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