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Keywords = high-resolution CT (HRCT)

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15 pages, 294 KiB  
Review
The Role of [18F]FDG PET Imaging for the Assessment of Pulmonary Lymphangitic Carcinomatosis: A Comprehensive Narrative Literature Review
by Francesco Dondi, Pietro Bellini, Michela Cossandi, Luca Camoni, Roberto Rinaldi, Gian Luca Viganò and Francesco Bertagna
Diagnostics 2025, 15(13), 1626; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15131626 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 445
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis (PLC) is a rare, aggressive manifestation of metastatic cancer characterized by lymphatic infiltration of the lungs, typically indicating advanced disease and poor prognosis. Methods: This comprehensive narrative review evaluates the role of [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) positron emission tomography [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis (PLC) is a rare, aggressive manifestation of metastatic cancer characterized by lymphatic infiltration of the lungs, typically indicating advanced disease and poor prognosis. Methods: This comprehensive narrative review evaluates the role of [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) imaging in assessing PLC. Results: Current evidence demonstrates that [18F]FDG PET/CT achieves high diagnostic accuracy, with sensitivity and specificity ranging from 86 to 97% and 84 to 100%, respectively, particularly when employing semiquantitative metrics such as peritumoral standardized uptake value (SUVmax) thresholds (e.g., ≥2.1). PET/CT surpasses high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in distinguishing PLC from mimics like pulmonary sarcoidosis by identifying distinct metabolic patterns: bronchovascular hypermetabolism in PLC versus subpleural nodular uptake in sarcoidosis. Prognostically, metabolic tumor burden (e.g., SUVmax × involved lobes) and novel cPLC classifications (localized to the ipsilateral or contralateral lung) independently predict progression-free survival. However, challenges persist, including non-specific tracer uptake in inflammatory conditions and variability in SUV measurements due to technical factors. Emerging digital PET/CT systems, with enhanced spatial resolution, may improve the detection of focal PLC and reduce false negatives. While [18F]FDG PET/CT is invaluable for whole-body staging, therapeutic monitoring and biopsy guidance, the standardization of protocols and multicenter validation of prognostic models are critical for clinical integration. Future research should explore novel tracers (e.g., PSMA for prostate cancer-related PLC) and machine learning approaches to refine diagnostic and prognostic accuracy. Conclusions: This review underscores the role and the transformative potential of [18F]FDG PET/CT in PLC management while advocating for rigorous standardization to maximize its clinical utility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Radiomics in Medical Imaging)
10 pages, 362 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Radiation Dose in High-Resolution Chest CT: The Impact of Patient-Specific Factors and Size-Specific Dose Estimates
by Mohamed Abuzaid
Diagnostics 2025, 15(6), 740; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15060740 - 16 Mar 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1285
Abstract
Background/Objectives: High-resolution chest computed tomography (HRCT) is a critical diagnostic tool, but radiation dose optimization remains a significant concern. Traditional dose metrics such as the volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) and dose-length product (DLP) do not adequately account for patient size variations. This [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: High-resolution chest computed tomography (HRCT) is a critical diagnostic tool, but radiation dose optimization remains a significant concern. Traditional dose metrics such as the volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) and dose-length product (DLP) do not adequately account for patient size variations. This study aimed to assess the radiation dose in HRCT using size-specific dose estimates (SSDEs) and evaluate the influence of patient-specific factors on key dosimetric parameters. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed HRCT scans from 1970 adult patients conducted between September 2022 and February 2024. Radiation dose data, including the CTDIvol, DLP, SSDE, and effective dose, were extracted from the DoseWatch™ software. Patient demographics, scan protocols, and exposure parameters were collected. Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and significance testing were conducted using IBM SPSS (Version 26). Results: A significant positive correlation was found between the radiation dose parameters (CTDIvol, DLP, SSDE) and patient body size metrics, particularly BMI (rpb = 0.445, p < 0.01). The SSDE values ranged from 2.7 to 12.4 mGy, providing a more patient-specific dose assessment than traditional indices. Gender differences were observed, with male patients receiving higher radiation doses (p < 0.01). The scanning range exhibited a significant negative correlation with the CTDIvol and SSDE, suggesting dose variations with anatomical coverage. Conclusions: SSDEs provide a more accurate, patient-centered dose assessment in HRCT, allowing for optimized radiation safety strategies. These findings emphasize the need for size-adapted scan protocols to minimize exposure while maintaining diagnostic image quality. The routine integration of SSDE into clinical practice is recommended to enhance individualized dose management in HRCT. Full article
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17 pages, 1114 KiB  
Article
Transthoracic Lung Ultrasound in Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease: Capacity to Differentiate Chest Computed-Tomographic Characteristic Patterns
by Cinzia Rotondo, Giuseppe Busto, Valeria Rella, Raffaele Barile, Fabio Cacciapaglia, Marco Fornaro, Florenzo Iannone, Donato Lacedonia, Carla Maria Irene Quarato, Antonello Trotta, Francesco Paolo Cantatore and Addolorata Corrado
Diagnostics 2025, 15(4), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15040488 - 17 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1041
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Even today, interstitial lung disease (ILD) is diagnosed by chest high-resolution computed tomography (lung HR-CT). Large amounts of data are available about the usefulness of transthoracic lung ultrasound (LUS) in ILD. This study aimed to evaluate the transthoracic LUS capacity to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Even today, interstitial lung disease (ILD) is diagnosed by chest high-resolution computed tomography (lung HR-CT). Large amounts of data are available about the usefulness of transthoracic lung ultrasound (LUS) in ILD. This study aimed to evaluate the transthoracic LUS capacity to discriminate different ILD patterns in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients, such as usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP), non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) with ground glass opacification/opacity (GGO), and NSIP with GGO and reticulations, as well as the possibility of identifying progressive fibrosing ILD. Methods: We enrolled SSc-patients attending the outpatient Clinic of the Rheumatology Unit of Policlinico of Foggia and the Rheumatology Unit of Policlinico of Bari who satisfied these inclusion criteria: age older than 18 years; the satisfaction of ACR/EULAR 2013 classification criteria for SSc; chest HR-CT scan within three months before or three months after transthoracic LUS evaluation; and availability of recent and complete pulmonary function test. The exclusion criteria were as follows: history or recent reactivation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, lung infection, heart failure, pulmonary oedema, pulmonary arterial hypertension, acute respiratory distress syndrome and diffuse alveolar haemorrhage and thoracic surgery. All enrolled SSc-patients underwent transthoracic LUS, performed by an experienced sonographer. The ILD diagnosis and the respective patterns were assessed by chest HR-CT, which still represents the best diagnostic tool. Results: ILD was observed in 99 (63.5%) patients. Of these, 25% had the UIP pattern and 75% the NSIP pattern (46 with GGO, 28 with GGO and reticulations). By receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, higher values of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and negative clinical utility index (CUI) were found for pleural line irregularity (0.84 (95% CI: 0.75–0.91), 96%, and 73.6%, p = 0.0001; 0.72), and pleural line thickness (0.84 (95% CI: 0.74–0.91), 72%, and 96.4%, p = 0.0001; 0.85) for detecting the UIP pattern. The best performance among transthoracic LUS signs for NSIP with the GGO pattern was observed for B-lines (accuracy: 0.88 (95% CI: 0.80–0.93), sensitivity: 93.4% and specificity: 82.4, p = 0.0001; CUI+: 0.75, CUI−: 0.77). LUS signs with higher accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for NSIP with GGO and reticulations were pleural line irregularity (0.89 (95% CI: 0.80–0.95), 96.4%, and 82.4%, p = 0.0001) with CUI−: 0.72, and B-lines (0.89 (95% CI: 0.80–0.95), 96.4%, 82.4%, p = 0.0001), with CUI+: 0.80 and CUI−: 0.70. Furthermore, a total number of B-lines > 10 maximises LUS performance with 92.3% sensitivity, and an accuracy of 0.83 (p = 0.0001) for detecting the NSIP pattern, particularly GGO. A sample-restricted analysis (66 SSc patients) evidenced the presence of progressive fibrosing ILD in 77% of these patients. By binary regression analysis, the unique LUS sign associated with progressive fibrosing ILD was the presence of pleural line irregularity (OR: 3.6; 95% CI 1.08–11.9; p = 0.036). Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that transthoracic LUS presented a high capacity to discriminate the different patterns of SSc-ILD. Therefore, the hypothesis that transthoracic LUS is an effective screening method for the evaluation of the presence of SSc-ILD and establishing the correct timing of chest HR-CT, in order to avoid patients receiving excessive exposure to ionising radiation, is supported. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis, Classification, and Monitoring of Pulmonary Diseases)
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13 pages, 275 KiB  
Article
Unmasking Pulmonary Parenchymal Changes in Psoriasis Patients: A Radiological Perspective
by Müfide Arzu Özkarafakılı, Mustafa İlteriş Bardakçı, Onur Sivaz and İlknur Kıvanç Altunay
Medicina 2025, 61(2), 196; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61020196 - 23 Jan 2025
Viewed by 833
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The relationship between psoriasis and pulmonary comorbidities remains to be explained. Our main objective was to investigate pulmonary parenchymal alterations in psoriasis outpatients with chest CT scans who did not exhibit pulmonary symptoms, regardless of their course of treatment [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The relationship between psoriasis and pulmonary comorbidities remains to be explained. Our main objective was to investigate pulmonary parenchymal alterations in psoriasis outpatients with chest CT scans who did not exhibit pulmonary symptoms, regardless of their course of treatment or disease severity. Materials and Methods: We examined pulmonary function tests, laboratory data, and SF-36 questionnaires from 270 consecutive psoriasis patients who underwent high-resolution computed tomography scans. Psoriasis duration, treatment details, and smoking status were analyzed to identify the associations affecting lung involvement. Results: The median age was 48 years, and the median duration of psoriasis was 15 years. A total of 72.6% were on biologics with a median PASI score of 1.5. In total, 43.2% were current smokers. Radiologists reported parenchymal lesions in 118 (43%) of the 270 patients’ HRCT images. Reticular changes (41%) were the most common radiological finding, followed by nodules (38%), and emphysematous changes (21%). Only age, mental health, and smoking status were found to influence the possibility of the occurrence of HRCT findings in multivariate analysis (p < 0.001). PASI scores and treatment options did not impact pulmonary parenchymal alterations (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The striking part was that when compared to never smokers, the imaging findings were 1.9 times more common in current smokers (p < 0.05). Using international consensus criteria, two (0.01%) patients were radiologically diagnosed as UIP, and two (0.01%) were identified as NSIP. Psoriasis patients may exert pulmonary disease without clinical manifestation. Pulmonary function tests and radiological evaluation with CT are highly recommended in detecting pulmonary parenchymal changes when indications such as age and current smoking history are present. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psoriasis: Pathogenesis and Therapy)
11 pages, 1756 KiB  
Article
Cervical CT Angiography: The Advantage of Ultra-High-Resolution CT Versus Conventional HRCT
by Junji Ito, Tsuneo Yamashiro, Hayato Tomita, Joichi Heianna, Sadayuki Murayama and Akihiro Nishie
Cancers 2024, 16(22), 3866; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16223866 - 19 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1197
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pre-treatment depiction of the cervical arteries is important for better intra-arterial infusion therapy of malignant head and neck tumors. There have not been any studies on the image quality of ultra-high-resolution computed tomography (U-HRCT) for cervical CT angiography (CTA). The aim of [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pre-treatment depiction of the cervical arteries is important for better intra-arterial infusion therapy of malignant head and neck tumors. There have not been any studies on the image quality of ultra-high-resolution computed tomography (U-HRCT) for cervical CT angiography (CTA). The aim of this study is to evaluate the advantages of U-HRCT over conventional HRCT for cervical CTA; Methods: Forty-one patients underwent cervical CTA prior to selective intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy for malignant head and neck tumors. Twenty-two patients were scanned on conventional HRCT, while the remaining nineteen on U-HRCT. U-HRCT super-high-resolution (SHR) mode was used in 8 patients, while high-resolution (HR) mode was used in 11 patients. On CTA, the visibility of 18 branches from bilateral external carotid arteries was evaluated using a 5-point scale by three radiologists in consensus. Prior to the patient study, a head–neck CT phantom study regarding mock arterial density and its visibility was performed; Results: Regarding the patient study, the mean score of the SHR mode for visibility was significantly higher than that of conventional HRCT in 17 of 18 arteries (p < 0.05). The mean score of the HR mode for visibility was significantly higher than that of conventional HRCT in all arteries (p < 0.05). Regarding the phantom study, the maximum density of the SHR mode was significantly higher than that of conventional HRCT for mock proximal and peripheral arteries (p < 0.01). In addition, the visual score of the SHR mode for mock arteries was significantly higher than that of conventional HRCT (p < 0.05); Conclusions: U-HRCT provides higher image quality in terms of visualization of the arteries than conventional HRCT in cervical CTA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Methods and Technologies Development)
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12 pages, 1693 KiB  
Article
B-Lines in the Assessment of Interstitial Lung Disease Associated with Scleroderma: The Role of Handheld Devices
by Codrina Ancuța, Cristina Pomirleanu, Ecaterina Gănceanu, Milena Adina Man, Eugen Ancuta and Paraschiva Postolache
Diagnostics 2024, 14(21), 2397; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14212397 - 28 Oct 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1246
Abstract
Background: Timely detection and aggressive management of interstitial lung disease (ILD) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) are essential to improving outcomes and reducing risks of irreversible lung injury. Objective: to explore the usefulness of an ultraportable ultrasound device for the management of [...] Read more.
Background: Timely detection and aggressive management of interstitial lung disease (ILD) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) are essential to improving outcomes and reducing risks of irreversible lung injury. Objective: to explore the usefulness of an ultraportable ultrasound device for the management of SSc-related ILD and to compare it with clinical and instrumental data. Methods: A total of 19 consecutive SSc patients underwent a comprehensive pulmonary evaluation: clinical, pulmonary function tests (PFTs) (spirometry, DLCO), lung CT (1.5 mm slice thickness reconstruction; HRCT), and lung ultrasound (LUS). A total score was calculated based on the number of color-coded B-lines recorded for each lung sliding. B-lines were analyzed against dyspnea, cough, Velcro, CT imaging (Warrick’s score), and PFTs. Global and subgroup analysis were performed (diffuse versus limited cutaneous SSc, Warrick’s < 7 versus >7). Results: Symptomatic lung involvement with varying degrees of dyspnea was reported in about 74% of cases (functional NYHA > 2 in more than half), chronic dry cough in one-third, Velcro rales in 42%. A total of 84.24% were classified as SSc with ILD on CT imaging. Statistically significant mild-to-moderate correlations between B-lines and clinical manifestations were demonstrated, as well as PFTs and Warrick’s scores (more B-lines, lower pulmonary function, but higher extent and severity on CT) (p < 0.05); there were differences between SSc patients without and with ILD in terms of the number and distribution of B-lines (p < 0.05), as well as different B-lines patterns and numbers in diffuse versus limited SSc (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Ultraportable handheld LUS is a promising method suitable for the management (screening, early detection, and evaluation) of SSc patients. Full article
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12 pages, 1374 KiB  
Article
Sarcoid Nodule or Lung Cancer? A High-Resolution Computed Tomography-Based Retrospective Study of Pulmonary Nodules in Patients with Sarcoidosis
by Chiara Catelli, Susanna Guerrini, Miriana D’Alessandro, Paolo Cameli, Antonio Fabiano, Giorgio Torrigiani, Cristiana Bellan, Maria Antonietta Mazzei, Piero Paladini and Luca Luzzi
Diagnostics 2024, 14(21), 2389; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14212389 - 26 Oct 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1897
Abstract
Background: The objective of this retrospective study was to compare the characteristics of sarcoid nodules and neoplastic nodules using high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in sarcoidosis patients. Methods: This is a single-center retrospective study. From 2010 to 2023, among 685 patients affected [...] Read more.
Background: The objective of this retrospective study was to compare the characteristics of sarcoid nodules and neoplastic nodules using high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in sarcoidosis patients. Methods: This is a single-center retrospective study. From 2010 to 2023, among 685 patients affected by pulmonary sarcoidosis, 23 patients developed pulmonary nodules of a suspicious malignant nature. The HRCT characteristics of biopsy-proven malignant (Group A) vs. inflammatory (Group B) nodules were analyzed and compared. Results: A significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of age (p = 0.012). With regard to HRCT features, statistical distinctions were observed in the appearance of the nodule, more frequently spiculated in the case of lung cancer (p < 0.01), in the diameter of the nodule (Group A: 23.5 mm; Group B: 12.18 mm, p < 0.02), in the median nodule density (Group A: 60.0 HU, Group B: −126.7 HU, p < 0.01), and in the number of pulmonary nodules, as a single parenchymal nodule was more frequently observed in the neoplastic patient group (p = 0.043). In Group A, the 18-PET-CT demonstrated hilar/mediastinal lymphadenopathy in 100% of cases; histology following surgery did not report any cases of malignant lymph node involvement. Conclusions: An accurate clinical evaluation and HRCT investigation are crucial for diagnosing lung cancer in patients with sarcoidosis in order to determine who requires surgical resection. The spiculated morphology of the nodule, greater size, the number of pulmonary nodules, and density using HRCT appear to correlate with the malignant nature of the lesion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis of Cardio-Thoracic Diseases)
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9 pages, 1467 KiB  
Article
Classification of High-Resolution Chest CT Scan Images Using Adaptive Fourier Neural Operators for COVID-19 Diagnosis
by Anusha Gurrala, Krishan Arora, Himanshu Sharma, Shamimul Qamar, Ajay Roy and Somenath Chakraborty
COVID 2024, 4(8), 1236-1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/covid4080088 - 7 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1675
Abstract
In the pursuit of advancing COVID-19 diagnosis through imaging, this paper introduces a novel approach utilizing adaptive Fourier neural operators (AFNO) for the analysis of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) chest images. The study population comprised 395 patients with 181,106 labeled high-resolution COVID-19 CT [...] Read more.
In the pursuit of advancing COVID-19 diagnosis through imaging, this paper introduces a novel approach utilizing adaptive Fourier neural operators (AFNO) for the analysis of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) chest images. The study population comprised 395 patients with 181,106 labeled high-resolution COVID-19 CT images from the HRCTCov19 dataset, categorized into four classes: ground glass opacity (GGO), crazy paving, air space consolidation, and negative for COVID-19. The methods included image preprocessing, involving resizing and normalization, followed by the application of the AFNO model, which enables efficient token mixing in the Fourier domain independent of input resolution. The model was trained using the Adam optimizer with a learning rate of 1 × 10⁴ and evaluated using metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. The results demonstrate AFNO’s superior performance in few-shot segmentation tasks over traditional self-attention mechanisms, achieving an overall accuracy of 94%. Specifically, the model showed high precision and recall for the GGO and negative classes, indicating its robustness and effectiveness. This research has significant implications for the development of AI-powered diagnostic tools, particularly in environments with limited access to high-quality imaging data and those where computational efficiency is critical. Our findings suggest that AFNO could serve as a powerful model for analyzing HRCT images, potentially leading to improved diagnosis and understanding of COVID-19, representing a critical step in combating the pandemic. Full article
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12 pages, 9083 KiB  
Article
Prediction of the Benign or Malignant Nature of Pulmonary Pure Ground-Glass Nodules Based on Radiomics Analysis of High-Resolution Computed Tomography Images
by Xiaoxia Ping, Nan Jiang, Qian Meng and Chunhong Hu
Tomography 2024, 10(7), 1042-1053; https://doi.org/10.3390/tomography10070078 - 5 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1515
Abstract
To evaluate the efficacy of radiomics features extracted from preoperative high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans in distinguishing benign and malignant pulmonary pure ground-glass nodules (pGGNs), a retrospective study of 395 patients from 2016 to 2020 was conducted. All nodules were randomly divided into [...] Read more.
To evaluate the efficacy of radiomics features extracted from preoperative high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans in distinguishing benign and malignant pulmonary pure ground-glass nodules (pGGNs), a retrospective study of 395 patients from 2016 to 2020 was conducted. All nodules were randomly divided into the training and validation sets in the ratio of 7:3. Radiomics features were extracted using MaZda software (version 4.6), and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) was employed for feature selection. Significant differences were observed in the training set between benign and malignant pGGNs in sex, mean CT value, margin, pleural retraction, tumor–lung interface, and internal vascular change, and then the mean CT value and the morphological features model were constructed. Fourteen radiomics features were selected by LASSO for the radiomics model. The combined model was developed by integrating all selected radiographic and radiomics features using logistic regression. The AUCs in the training set were 0.606 for the mean CT value, 0.718 for morphological features, 0.756 for radiomics features, and 0.808 for the combined model. In the validation set, AUCs were 0.601, 0.692, 0.696, and 0.738, respectively. The decision curves showed that the combined model demonstrated the highest net benefit. Full article
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9 pages, 222 KiB  
Review
Insidious Cases of Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct (EVA) Syndrome Resembling Otosclerosis: Clinical Features for Differential Diagnosis and the Role of High-Resolution Computed Tomography in the Pre-Operative Setting
by Giovanni Motta, Salvatore Allosso, Ludovica Castagna, Ghita Trifuoggi, Tonia Di Meglio, Domenico Testa, Massimo Mesolella and Gaetano Motta
Audiol. Res. 2024, 14(4), 593-601; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres14040050 - 27 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1802
Abstract
Background: Enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) syndrome can mimic otosclerosis in adults, presenting with an air–bone gap (ABG) and even absent stapedial reflexes. The ABG in inner-ear disorders is currently the object of several authors’ studies and seems to be related to a third [...] Read more.
Background: Enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) syndrome can mimic otosclerosis in adults, presenting with an air–bone gap (ABG) and even absent stapedial reflexes. The ABG in inner-ear disorders is currently the object of several authors’ studies and seems to be related to a third mobile window (TMW) phenomenon. This can lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. Given that it would be inappropriate and harmful to perform CT scans in all patients with a clinical diagnosis of otosclerosis, this study aims to highlight some clinical features useful for the differential diagnosis between otosclerosis and these rare cases of EVA presenting with an ABG, thus enabling the identification of suspected cases to be tested with CT scans. Methods: Between April and May 2024, a narrative review was conducted focusing on the differential diagnosis between some rare cases of EVA and otosclerosis. Clinical, audiological, and radiologic features of both conditions were investigated. Results: This review demonstrates the diagnostic challenge in differentiating atypical cases of EVA from otosclerosis in a subset of patients. Clinical and audiological features are important for differential diagnosis, but may not always be sufficient. Therefore, high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the temporal bone plays a pivotal role in definitive diagnosis. Conclusions: In some specific cases, pre-operative imaging assessment using HRCT emerges as an essential tool for differentiating these two conditions and avoiding unnecessary stapes surgery. Full article
12 pages, 1100 KiB  
Article
The Value of Ultrasound for Detecting and Following Subclinical Interstitial Lung Disease in Systemic Sclerosis
by Marwin Gutierrez, Chiara Bertolazzi, Edgar Zozoaga-Velazquez and Denise Clavijo-Cornejo
Tomography 2024, 10(4), 521-532; https://doi.org/10.3390/tomography10040041 - 3 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2214
Abstract
Background: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a complication in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Accurate strategies to identify its presence in early phases are essential. We conducted the study aiming to determine the validity of ultrasound (US) in detecting subclinical ILD in SSc, [...] Read more.
Background: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a complication in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Accurate strategies to identify its presence in early phases are essential. We conducted the study aiming to determine the validity of ultrasound (US) in detecting subclinical ILD in SSc, and to ascertain its potential in determining the disease progression. Methods: 133 patients without respiratory symptoms and 133 healthy controls were included. Borg scale, Rodnan skin score (RSS), auscultation, chest radiographs, and respiratory function tests (RFT) were performed. A rheumatologist performed the lung US. High-resolution CT (HRCT) was also performed. The patients were followed every 12 weeks for 48 weeks. Results: A total of 79 of 133 patients (59.4%) showed US signs of ILD in contrast to healthy controls (4.8%) (p = 0.0001). Anti-centromere antibodies (p = 0.005) and RSS (p = 0.004) showed an association with ILD. A positive correlation was demonstrated between the US and HRCT findings (p = 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of US in detecting ILD were 91.2% and 88.6%, respectively. In the follow-up, a total of 30 patients out of 79 (37.9%) who demonstrated US signs of ILD at baseline, showed changes in the ILD score by US. Conclusions: US showed a high prevalence of subclinical ILD in SSc patients. It proved to be a valid, reliable, and feasible tool to detect ILD in SSc and to monitor disease progression. Full article
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15 pages, 2453 KiB  
Article
99mTc-Labeled FAPI SPECT Imaging in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Preliminary Results
by Yu Liu, Qian Zhang, Yuwei Zhang, Jingnan Wang, Yitian Wu, Guangjie Yang, Jiyun Shi, Fan Wang, Zuojun Xu and Hongli Jing
Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(10), 1434; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16101434 - 9 Oct 2023
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2355
Abstract
Aim: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is associated with a poor prognosis, presenting the most aggressive form of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). Activated fibroblasts are crucial for pathological processes. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) inhibitor (FAPI) tracers would be promising imaging agents for these diseases. [...] Read more.
Aim: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is associated with a poor prognosis, presenting the most aggressive form of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). Activated fibroblasts are crucial for pathological processes. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) inhibitor (FAPI) tracers would be promising imaging agents for these diseases. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a 99mTc-labeled FAPI tracer, 99mTc-HFAPI imaging in IPF patients. Methods: Eleven IPF patients (nine males and two females; age range 55–75 year) were included in this pilot study. 99mTc-HFAPI serial whole-body scintigraphy at 5 min, 20 min, 40 min, 1 h, 2 h, 3 h, 4 h, and 6 h was acquired for dynamic biodistribution and dosimetry estimation in seven representative patients. SPECT/CT tomography fusion imaging of the chest region was performed in all patients at 4 h post-injection, which was considered as the optimal acquisition time. Dosimetry was calculated using OLINDA/EXM software (version 2.0; HERMES Medical Solutions). The quantified or semi-quantified standardized uptake values (SUVs) and lesion-to-background ratios (LBRs) of affected lung parenchyma were also calculated. The high-resolution CT (HRCT) stage was determined with visual evaluation, and the total HRCT score of each patient was measured using a weighting factor formula. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were recorded as well. Then, the relationships between the 99mTc-HFAPI results, disease extent on HRCT, and PFT results were investigated. Results: Normal physiological uptake of 99mTc-HFAPI was observed mainly in the liver, intestinal tract, pancreas, gallbladder, and to a lesser extent in the spleen, kidneys, and thyroid, with no apparent retention in the blood circulation at the late time point. The mean injected activity of 99mTc-HFAPI was 813.4 MBq (range 695.6–888.0 MBq). No subjective side effects were noticed. The average whole-body effective dose was 0.0041 mSv/MBq per patient. IPF patients exhibited elevated pulmonary 99mTc-HFAPI uptake in abnormal lung regions, which was correlated with fibrotic regions on HRCT. Among different HRCT stage groups, both SUVmax and LBR showed significant differences (p < 0.001). The higher HRCT stage demonstrated significantly higher SUVmax and LBR. A linear correlation between 99mTc-HFAPI uptake and total HRCT score was observed for SUVmax (r = 0.7839, F = 54.41, p = 0.0094) and LBR (r = 0.7402, F = 56.33, p = 0.0092). 99mTc-HFAPI uptake also had moderate correlations with PFT results. Conclusions: Our preliminary data show that the 99mTc-HFAPI SPECT imaging is a promising new imaging modality in IPF patients. Investigations of its clinical value in monitoring disease progression and treatment response are needed in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Radiopharmaceutical Sciences)
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10 pages, 3253 KiB  
Communication
Retrospective Analysis of Subsolid Nodules’ Frequency Using Chest Computed Tomography Detection in an Outpatient Population
by Ana Paula Zanardo, Vicente Bohrer Brentano, Rafael Domingos Grando, Rafael Ramos Rambo, Felipe Teixeira Hertz, Luis Carlos Anflor Junior, Jonatas Favero Prietto Dos Santos, Gabriela Schneider Galvao and Cristiano Feijo Andrade
Tomography 2023, 9(4), 1494-1503; https://doi.org/10.3390/tomography9040119 - 9 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2175
Abstract
Introduction: The study was designed to evaluate the frequency of detection and the characteristics of subsolid nodules (SSNs) in outpatients’ chest computed tomography (CT) scans from a private hospital in Southern Brazil. Methods: A retrospective analysis of all chest CT scans was performed [...] Read more.
Introduction: The study was designed to evaluate the frequency of detection and the characteristics of subsolid nodules (SSNs) in outpatients’ chest computed tomography (CT) scans from a private hospital in Southern Brazil. Methods: A retrospective analysis of all chest CT scans was performed in adult patients from ambulatory care (non-lung cancer screening population) over a thirty-day period. Inclusion criteria were age > 18 years and lung-scanning protocols, including standard-dose high-resolution chest CT (HRCT), enhanced CT, CT angiography, and low-dose chest CT (LDCT). SSNs main features collected were mean diameter, number, density (pure or heterogenous ground glass nodules and part-solid), and localization. TheLungRADS system and the updated Fleischner Society’s pulmonary nodules recommendations were used for categorization only for study purposes, although not specifically fitting the population. The presence of emphysema, as well as calcified and solid nodules were also addressed. Statistical analysis was performed using R software, categorial variables are shown as absolute or relative frequencies, and continuous variables as mean and interquartile ranges. Results: Chest computed tomography were performed in 756 patients during the study period (September 2019), and 650 met the inclusion criteria. The IQR for age was 53/73 years; most participants were female (58.3%) and 10.6% had subsolid nodules detected. Conclusions: The frequency of SSNs detection in patients in daily clinical practice, not related to screening populations, is not negligible. Regardless of the final etiology, follow-up is often indicated, given the likelihood of malignancy for persistent lesions. Full article
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26 pages, 5814 KiB  
Article
An Automated Broncho-Arterial (BA) Pair Segmentation Process and Assessment of BA Ratios in Children with Bronchiectasis Using Lung HRCT Scans: A Pilot Study
by Sami Azam, Sidratul Montaha, A. K. M. Rakibul Haque Rafid, Asif Karim, Mirjam Jonkman, Friso De Boer, Gabrielle McCallum, Ian Brent Masters and Anne Chang
Biomedicines 2023, 11(7), 1874; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11071874 - 30 Jun 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2773
Abstract
Bronchiectasis in children can progress to a severe lung condition if not diagnosed and treated early. The radiological diagnostic criteria for the diagnosis of bronchiectasis is an increased broncho-arterial (BA) ratio. From high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans, the BA pairs must be detected [...] Read more.
Bronchiectasis in children can progress to a severe lung condition if not diagnosed and treated early. The radiological diagnostic criteria for the diagnosis of bronchiectasis is an increased broncho-arterial (BA) ratio. From high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans, the BA pairs must be detected first to derive the BA ratio. This study aims to identify potential BA pairs from HRCT scans of children undertaken to evaluate suppurative lung disease through an automated approach. After segmenting the lung regions, the HRCT scans are cleaned using a histogram analysis-based approach followed by a potential arteries identification process comprising four conditions based on imaging features. Potential arteries and their connected components are extracted, and potential bronchi are identified. Finally, the coordinates of potential arteries and potential bronchi are matched as the last step of BA pairs extraction. A total of 8–50 BA pairs are detected for each patient. Additionally, the area and several diameters of the bronchi and arteries are measured, and BA ratios based on these are calculated. Through this approach, the BA pairs of a CT scan datasets are detected and utilizing a deep learning model, a high classification test accuracy of 98.53% is achieved, validating the robustness of the proposed BA detection approach. The results show that visible BA pairs can be identified and segmented automatically, and the BA ratio calculated may help diagnose bronchiectasis with less effort and time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomedical Engineering and Materials)
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12 pages, 2164 KiB  
Article
Lung Ultrasonography Is an Acceptable Imaging Modality to Diagnose COVID-19 and Effectively Correlates with HRCT Chest—A Prospective Study
by Muiez Bashir, Wani Inzamam, Mohd Kamran Banday, Sheikh Riaz Rasool, Mudasir Hamid Bhat, Carmen Vladulescu, Fahad A. Al-Misned and Hamed A. El-Serehy
Diagnostics 2023, 13(12), 2091; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics13122091 - 16 Jun 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2263
Abstract
It has been validated beyond doubt that High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) chest and to some extent chest radiographs have a role in corona virus disease-19 (COVID-19). Much less is known about the role of lung ultrasonography (LUS) in COVID-19. In this paper, our [...] Read more.
It has been validated beyond doubt that High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) chest and to some extent chest radiographs have a role in corona virus disease-19 (COVID-19). Much less is known about the role of lung ultrasonography (LUS) in COVID-19. In this paper, our main purpose was to gauge the relationship between LUS and chest HRCT in reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) documented cases of COVID-19, as well as in those with high suspicion of COVID-19 with negative RT–PCR. It was a prospective study carried out at our tertiary care hospital, namely, SKIMS Soura. The total number of patients in this study were 152 (200 patients were selected out of which only 152 had undergone both LUS and chest HRCT). The patients were subjected to both LUS and chest HRCT. The radiologist who performed LUS was blinded to clinical findings and HRCT was evaluated by a radiologist with about a decade of experience. The LUS findings compatible with the disease were subpleural consolidations, B-lines and irregular pleural lines. Findings that were compatible with COVID-19 on chest HRCT were bibasilar, subpleural predominant ground glass opacities, crazy paving and consolidations. COVID-19-positive patients were taken up for chest HRCT for disease severity stratification and were also subjected to LUS. On HRCT chest, the imaging abnormalities compatible with COVID-19 were evident in 110 individuals (72.37%), and on Lung Ultrasound they were observed in 120 individuals (78.95%). Imaging of COVID-19 patients assessed by both LUS and HRCT chest,, showed a positive correlation (p < 0.0001). The study revealed a sensitivity of 88%, a specificity of 76.62%, a positive predictive value of 78.57% and a negative predictive value of 86.76%. None of the individuals with a diagnosis of COVID-19 on HRCT were missed on LUS. An excellent correlation was derived between the LUS score and CT total severity score (p < 0.0001 with a kappa of 0.431). Similar precision compared with chest HRCT in the detection of chest flaws in COVID-19 patients was obtained on LUS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of CT in 2019 Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia (COVID-19))
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