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Updated: Dec 26, 2025

A Novel Method: Super-selective Adrenal Venous Sampling
Published on: September 15, 2017
Virtual Noncontrast Images From Portal Venous Phase Spectral-Detector CT Acquisitions for Adrenal Lesion
Kai Roman Laukamp, Rivka Kessner, Sandra Halliburton1
1Philips Healthcare, CT Clinical Science, Cleveland, OH.
Objective:
The aim of this study was to investigate if Hounsfield unit (HU) values from virtual noncontrast (VNC) images derived from portal venous phase spectral-detector computed tomography can help to differentiate adrenal adenomas and metastases.
Methods:
Spectral-detector computed tomography datasets of 33 patients with presence of adrenal lesions and standard of reference for lesion origin by follow-up/prior examinations or dedicated magnetic resonance imaging were included. Conventional and VNC images were reconstructed from the same scan. Region of interest-based image analysis was performed in adrenal lesions and contralateral healthy adrenal tissue.
Results:
The 33 lesions consisted of 23 adenomas and 10 metastases. Hounsfield unit values of all lesions in VNC images were significantly lower compared with conventional images (18.2 ± 12.6 HU vs 59.6 ± 21.7 HU, P < 0.001). Hounsfield unit values in adenomas were significantly lower in VNC images (11.3 ± 6.5 HU vs 34.1 ± 9.1 HU, P < 0.001).
Conclusions:
Virtual noncontrast HU values differed significantly between adrenal adenomas and metastases and can therefore be used for improved characterization of incidental adrenal lesions and definition of adrenal adenomas.
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