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Routine chest radiographs in psychiatric patients
1Department of Radiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.
The Central African Journal of Medicine
|September 1, 1990
Summary
Routine chest X-rays are most beneficial for psychiatric patients over 40, particularly those with suspected chest conditions. This targeted approach avoids unnecessary screenings in younger patients or those without clinical signs of disease.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Psychiatry
- Thoracic Medicine
Background:
- Chest radiography is a common diagnostic tool.
- Its utility in routine psychiatric patient screening requires evaluation.
- Identifying cost-effective and clinically relevant imaging practices is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the diagnostic yield of routine chest radiographs in psychiatric patients.
- To determine the clinical significance of abnormalities found.
- To establish guidelines for appropriate chest X-ray referrals in this population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 178 psychiatric patients' chest radiographs.
- Categorization of radiographic findings into significant and non-significant abnormalities.
- Correlation of radiographic findings with clinical suspicion and patient demographics.
Main Results:
- Abnormalities were detected in 67 patients (37.6%).
- Significant abnormalities were found in 22 patients (12.4%), all with prior clinical suspicion.
- No significant abnormalities were identified in patients under 40 years of age.
Conclusions:
- Routine chest radiography in psychiatric patients yields limited significant findings, especially in those under 40.
- Screening should be reserved for psychiatric patients over 40, with a particular focus on those exhibiting clinical signs of chest disease.
- This approach optimizes resource allocation and reduces exposure to unnecessary radiation.