Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 1, 2026

09:11
Systematic Scoring Analysis for Intestinal Inflammation in a Murine Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Colitis Model
Published on: February 14, 2021
Development of a computed tomography-based scoring system for necrotizing soft-tissue infections
Edward A McGillicuddy1, Andrew W Lischuk, Kevin M Schuster
1Department of Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520-8062, USA. edward.mcgillicuddy@yale.edu
The Journal of Trauma
|May 26, 2011
Summary
A new computed tomography (CT) scoring system aids in diagnosing necrotizing soft-tissue infections (NSTIs). This CT-based tool demonstrates high sensitivity and specificity, improving diagnostic accuracy for NSTI.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Necrotizing soft-tissue infections (NSTIs) present a significant clinical challenge due to high morbidity and mortality.
- A definitive non-surgical diagnostic test for NSTIs is currently lacking.
- Computed tomography (CT) is frequently used, but its correlation with NSTI diagnosis requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a computed tomography (CT)-based scoring system.
- To differentiate between necrotizing soft-tissue infections (NSTIs) and non-NSTIs using CT findings.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 305 patients (age >17) undergoing CT for soft-tissue infection was performed.
- CT scans were reviewed by a radiologist blinded to clinical data.
- A CT-based scoring system was developed and evaluated for diagnostic performance.
Main Results:
- The developed CT scoring system showed 86.3% sensitivity and 91.5% specificity for NSTI diagnosis.
- A score greater than 6 indicated a high likelihood of NSTI.
- The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.928, indicating strong diagnostic capability.
Conclusions:
- A novel CT scoring system has been developed for the diagnosis of NSTIs.
- This scoring system offers a sensitive and specific tool to aid clinicians in diagnosing NSTIs.
- Prospective validation of the CT scoring system is recommended for future clinical application.
Related Concept Videos
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT
Calcium-Scoring CT ScanA calcium-scoring CT scan, also known as coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, detects calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. This test assesses the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to cardiovascular events such as angina, heart failure, and sudden cardiac arrest.A calcium-scoring CT scan is generally recommended for individuals at intermediate risk of CAD without symptoms. It includes:Men aged 40-75 and women aged 50-75: Especially those with a...
Computed Tomography
Tomography refers to imaging by sections. Computed tomography (CT) is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses computers to analyze several cross-sectional X-rays to reveal minute details about structures in the body.
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
