Incidental Findings on Computerized Tomography Images of Trauma Cases

This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of incidental findings (IFs) on computed tomography (CT) scans of trauma admissions, examine associations between IFs and gender and age-groups, and discuss the management strategies.

The CT reports were retrospectively reviewed to evaluate IFs. Cases were divided into five age-groups (0-19, 20- 39, 40-59, 60-79,≥80). IFs were classified as "Group 1": congenital anomalies that do not require further investigation, non-degenerative/minor degenerative findings; "Group 2": findings that do not require immediate intervention, require outpatient follow-up/in case of symptoms; and "Group 3": findings that require immediate intervention/further investigation.

There were 2385 CT scans and 1802 incidental findings (IFs) in 783 trauma cases. CT scans with IFs constituted 50.2%. The percentage of IFs was 75.6% in males and 24.4% in females, and they occurred in 4.8%, 27.6%, 44.3%, 20.9%, and 2.4% of age groups 1 to 5, respectively. Group 1 had 34.6%, group 2 had 54.6%, and group 3 had 10.8% IFs. There was not any significant association between the classification and gender or age-groups. In terms of organs, IFs of the thyroid and gall bladder & bile ducts were significantly higher among females (P=0.044 and P<0.001, respectively), while IFs in the head & neck region were significantly higher in males (P<0.001). Incidental findings in the kidney, liver, adrenal gland, and vascular structures differed significantly across age-groups (P<0.05).

There were no significant relationships between the classification of IFs and gender or age-groups. However, the distribution of IFs was significantly associated with gender and age-groups in terms of organs. Healthcare professionals should consider this relationship when following up and treating patients.