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[Serial observations on pulmonary emboli/infarcts with computerised tomography (author's transl)].
Rofo : Fortschritte Auf Dem Gebiete Der Rontgenstrahlen Und Der Nuklearmedizin
|July 1, 1978
Summary
Computerized tomography (CT) scans can detect pulmonary emboli and infarcts, revealing a triangular attenuation area as a key diagnostic sign. Serial CT observations are valuable for monitoring thrombus regression and treatment effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Pulmonary emboli and infarcts present diagnostic challenges in their acute phase.
- Early radiological changes may not be definitive for pulmonary embolism diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of computerized tomography (CT) in diagnosing pulmonary emboli and infarcts.
- To identify specific CT findings indicative of pulmonary infarction.
- To assess the role of serial CT observations in monitoring disease progression and treatment response.
Main Methods:
- Observation of fourteen patients with pulmonary emboli/infarcts.
- Utilized computerized tomography (CT) for imaging.
- Follow-up duration of at least three months.
Main Results:
- Acute phase CT scans showed minimal radiological changes, often not diagnostic of pulmonary emboli.
- Definite changes in attenuation of pulmonary parenchyma, blood vessels, and pleura were observed on CT.
- A consistent triangular area of attenuation was identified as a diagnostically valuable sign of pulmonary infarction.
Conclusions:
- Computerized tomography (CT) reveals significant parenchymal, vascular, and pleural changes in pulmonary embolism/infarction.
- A triangular attenuation area on CT is a reliable indicator of pulmonary infarction.
- Serial CT observations are crucial for assessing thrombus regression and treatment efficacy in suspected pulmonary emboli.