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CT thoracic duct lymphography in cats by popliteal lymph node iohexol injection
Namsoon Lee1, Sungjun Won, Mihyun Choi
1Department of Veterinary Medical Imaging, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, 151-742.
Summary
This study found that 1.5 ml of iohexol is the optimal dose for CT lymphography in cats. This technique reliably visualizes the thoracic duct, aiding in diagnosing conditions like chylothorax.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Radiology
- Lymphatic Imaging
- Comparative Anatomy
Background:
- Accurate visualization of the feline thoracic duct is crucial for diagnosing lymphatic abnormalities.
- Current imaging techniques may have limitations in fully delineating the thoracic duct anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the optimal dose of iohexol and CT parameters for percutaneous CT lymphography in cats.
- To evaluate the reliability of this technique for thoracic duct delineation.
Main Methods:
- Ultrasound-guided percutaneous injection of iohexol (300 mgI/ml) into the popliteal lymph node of adult cats.
- Serial transverse CT imaging at various spinal levels (L3 to T1) with attenuation measurements.
- Helical CT acquisition and subsequent CT lymphography in a cat with chylothorax.
Main Results:
- An optimal iohexol dose of 1.5 ml was identified.
- Helical CT acquisition immediately after injection is recommended.
- The thoracic duct exhibited variable branching and entry into the venous system.
- CT lymphography successfully visualized a tortuous and dilated thoracic duct with contrast leakage in a chylothorax case.
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous CT lymphography using ultrasound-guided iohexol administration is a reliable method for delineating the feline thoracic duct.
- This technique provides valuable diagnostic information for conditions such as chylothorax.
