Related Experiment Video

Updated: Sep 25, 2026

Contrast Enhanced Vessel Imaging using MicroCT
05:50

Contrast Enhanced Vessel Imaging using MicroCT

Published on: January 27, 2011

Osteomyelitis in children with sickle cell disease: early diagnosis with contrast-enhanced CT

J E Stark1, C M Glasier, R D Blasier

  • 1Department of Radiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock.

Radiology
|June 1, 1991
PubMed

Insights

Computed tomography (CT) aids early osteomyelitis diagnosis in children with sickle cell disease, preventing delays and reducing complications. Prompt CT scans are crucial when symptoms mimic bone infarction.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric medicine
  • Radiology
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Osteomyelitis diagnosis in sickle cell disease patients is challenging due to overlapping symptoms with bone infarction.
  • Plain radiography may lack early characteristic findings.
  • Radionuclide scans have shown variable diagnostic utility.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the role of computed tomography (CT) in the early diagnosis of osteomyelitis in children with sickle cell disease.
  • To highlight the benefits of prompt CT imaging in managing this patient population.

Main Methods:

  • Case study of two children with sickle cell disease and suspected osteomyelitis.
  • Utilized computed tomography (CT) for diagnostic imaging.
  • Compared diagnostic timelines and treatment outcomes based on imaging modality.

Main Results:

  • One patient experienced delayed treatment due to reliance on initial radiographic findings.
  • The other patient received prompt diagnosis and treatment following early CT scan identification of a subperiosteal abscess.
  • CT imaging facilitated definitive diagnosis in equivocal cases.

Conclusions:

  • Early computed tomography (CT) is a valuable tool for diagnosing osteomyelitis in children with sickle cell disease.
  • Prompt CT can prevent diagnostic delays and associated morbidity in these patients.
  • CT imaging can differentiate osteomyelitis from bone infarction when clinical presentations are similar.

More Related Videos

Magnetic Levitation Coupled with Portable Imaging and Analysis for Disease Diagnostics07:42

Magnetic Levitation Coupled with Portable Imaging and Analysis for Disease Diagnostics

Published on: February 19, 2017

High Spatial Resolution Chemical Imaging of Implant-Associated Infections with X-ray Excited Luminescence Chemical Imaging Through Tissue07:48

High Spatial Resolution Chemical Imaging of Implant-Associated Infections with X-ray Excited Luminescence Chemical Imaging Through Tissue

Published on: September 30, 2022

Related Concept Videos

Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT01:30

Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT

Radiological investigations, including X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans, are critical for diagnosing and evaluating various medical conditions. These imaging techniques provide valuable insights into the body's internal structures, aiding in the detection of abnormalities, assessment of disease progression, and development of treatment strategies. This article delves into two primary radiological investigations, chest X-rays and CT scans, outlining their purpose, procedures, and the...
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI01:14

Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI

Introduction: MRI and CT scans are crucial advancements in medical imaging techniques, playing a vital role in diagnosing conditions related to the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Each scan serves distinct purposes, targets specific areas, and requires unique nursing duties.
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT01:28

Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT

Cardiac computed tomography (CT) scanning is an advanced cardiac imaging technique that utilizes CT technology, with or without intravenous (IV) contrast, to produce accurate cross-sectional virtual slices of specific areas of the heart, coronary circulation, and major blood vessels such as the aorta, pulmonary veins, and arteries. The computer processes these slices to generate three-dimensional images. Multidetector CT (MDCT) is a rapid form of CT scanning that captures multiple slices...
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography01:27

Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography

DefinitionComputed Tomography (CT) of the genitourinary (GU) tract is a non-invasive imaging modality that utilizes X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and adjacent structures such as the adrenal glands.PurposeCT scans of the GU tract serve several diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Diseases: Detects kidney stones, tumors, cysts, and congenital...