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Ex vivo characterization of pathologic fluids with quantitative phase-contrast computed tomography
Vivien Richter1, Marian S Willner2, John Henningsen2
1Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Weg 3, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany.
European Journal of Radiology
|December 29, 2016
Summary
Quantitative phase-contrast computed tomography (PCCT) effectively differentiates various pathologic fluid collections by analyzing X-ray phase shifts. This advanced imaging technique shows promise for clinical use in distinguishing fluid types that appear similar with conventional methods.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Biophysics
- Radiology
Background:
- X-ray phase-contrast imaging (PCI) offers information beyond standard absorption, detecting X-ray beam phase shifts.
- Grating-based PCI systems are compatible with polychromatic X-ray sources, suggesting clinical feasibility.
- Previous studies demonstrated PCI's utility in soft-tissue analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate ex vivo quantitative phase-contrast computed tomography (PCCT) for differentiating pathologic fluid collections.
- To assess the potential of PCCT in clinical applications for fluid analysis.
Main Methods:
- PCCT was performed using a grating interferometry method.
- Samples included protein dilutions, blood, and 17 clinical pathologic fluid collections.
- Quantitative analysis used phase-contrast Hounsfield Units (HUp), compared with conventional imaging and clinical chemistry.
Main Results:
- HUp demonstrated a strong linear correlation with protein concentration in vitro.
- PCCT effectively differentiated protein concentrations and blood components (plasma vs. cells).
- The technique distinguished between watery fluids (e.g., lymphoceles) and pus.
Conclusions:
- Quantitative phase-contrast computed tomography is a valuable tool for differentiating pathologic fluids.
- PCCT can distinguish between fluid types that are indistinguishable using conventional attenuation imaging.
