Comparison of CT Values between Thrombus and Postmortem Clot Based on Cadaveric Pulmonary Angiography

Area of Science:

• Forensic Radiology
• Pathology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Distinguishing pulmonary thromboembolism from postmortem clots is crucial in forensic pathology.
• Postmortem CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) is a valuable tool in virtual autopsies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To differentiate CT values between pulmonary thromboembolism and postmortem clots using postmortem CTPA.
• To enhance the diagnostic utility of virtual autopsies.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of postmortem CTPA data (2016-2019).
• Groups included pulmonary thromboembolism (n=4), postmortem clot (n=5), and control (n=5).
• Statistical analysis of CT values in pulmonary arteries.

Main Results:

• Mean CT values were significantly lower in pulmonary thromboembolism (168.4±53.8 HU) and postmortem clot (282.7±78.0 HU) groups compared to controls (1193.0±82.9 HU).
• Postmortem clots exhibited higher CT values than pulmonary thromboembolism.
• P < 0.05 for all comparisons.

Conclusions:

• CT values provide a reliable and objective method for differentiating pulmonary thromboembolism from postmortem clots in postmortem CTPA.
• This finding supports the use of CT values to exclude pulmonary thromboembolism as a cause of death.