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Q fever pneumonia: CT findings
A E Voloudaki1, D P Kofteridis, I N Tritou
1Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
Radiology
|June 1, 2000
Summary
Computed tomographic (CT) features of Q fever pneumonia typically show multilobar airspace consolidation. Less common findings include nodular patterns and necrotizing pneumonia in immunocompromised patients.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Q fever pneumonia is caused by Coxiella burnetii.
- Accurate diagnosis relies on identifying characteristic imaging findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the computed tomographic (CT) features of Q fever pneumonia.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of chest radiographs and CT scans from 12 patients with confirmed acute Q fever.
- Analysis of imaging findings including airspace involvement patterns and associated features.
Main Results:
- CT revealed airspace consolidation in all patients (lobar, segmental, patchy, or combined).
- Multilobar involvement was common (58%).
- Less frequent findings included nodular lesions with halo sign, necrotizing pneumonia in an alcohol-abusing patient, pleural effusions, and lymphadenopathy.
Conclusions:
- Multilobar airspace consolidation is the typical CT finding in Q fever pneumonia.
- Nodular patterns and necrotizing pneumonia are less common but significant CT findings.