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Quantitative Micro-CT Analysis of Aortopathy in a Mouse Model of β-aminopropionitrile-induced Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection
Published on: July 16, 2018
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Imaging features of mycotic aortic aneurysms
Nan Zhang1, Wei Xiong2, Yu Li1
1Department of Radiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
Quantitative Imaging in Medicine and Surgery
|June 3, 2021
Summary
Infectious aortitis (IA), a rare but serious condition, is often diagnosed late due to vague symptoms. Recognizing key imaging features of mycotic aortic aneurysms (MAAs) is vital for early detection and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Infectious aortitis (IA) is a rare, life-threatening condition.
- Mycotic aortic aneurysms (MAAs) present diagnostic challenges due to nonspecific symptoms, often leading to late diagnosis and complications like rupture.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of the clinical and imaging features of mycotic aortic aneurysms (MAAs).
- To enhance radiologists' familiarity with MAA imaging appearances for improved diagnosis.
- To facilitate timely treatment of IA.
Main Methods:
- Review of current state-of-the-art imaging modalities: computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/CT.
- Identification of characteristic imaging findings associated with MAAs.
- Description of common complications and post-treatment imaging features.
Main Results:
- MAA imaging features include lobulated pseudoaneurysms, indistinct arterial walls, perianeurysmal changes (gas, edema, soft tissue mass), thrombosis, and increased FDG uptake.
- Associated findings include enlarged lymph nodes, iliopsoas abscess (IPA), spondylitis, and aortic fistulas.
- Post-intervention imaging may reveal signs of graft infection, such as ectopic gas or peri-graft fluid.
Conclusions:
- Familiarity with the diverse imaging manifestations of MAAs is essential for accurate diagnosis.
- Advanced imaging techniques play a crucial role in detecting IA and guiding management.
- Timely diagnosis based on imaging interpretation can significantly reduce IA-related mortality.
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