Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 11, 2026
Tissue Preparation Techniques for Contrast-Enhanced Micro Computed Tomography Imaging of Large Mammalian Cardiac Models with Chronic Disease
Published on: February 8, 2022
Histological artifacts induced by the contrast agent in Multi-Phase Post-Mortem CT Angiography (MPMCTA): Part I -
Jessika Camatti1, Bruno Giuliano Gangi2, Maria Paola Bonasoni3
1University of Parma, Parma, Italy. jessika.camatti@unipr.it.
Introduction:
Multiphase postmortem computed tomographic angiography (MPMCTA) is a technique that provides comprehensive visualization of the cardiovascular system by injection of a contrast agent into the cadaver. Our aim is to systematically describe the histo-morphological changes and artifacts induced by the injection of the mixture of contrast agents (Angiofil® and paraffin oil) used for MPMCTA.
Materials And Methods:
Histological specimens taken from 37 cases undergoing MPMCTA and autopsy were analyzed. Histological sections were analyzed using a Semi-motorized Olympus BX53 microscope associated with Olympus DP21 camera for images acquisition, in consecutive reading sessions by three forensic pathologists with experience in the field of histopathology for 20 years.
Results:
A total of 278 histological samples was included in the study. Different types of artifacts were encountered, which can be grouped into four main categories: the presence of optical empty spaces; the compression of surrounding structures; hyperaemia of small vessels and capillaries; vessel dilation.
Conclusions:
Postmortem angiography is a valuable method for visualizing blood vessels. However, the use of contrast media can introduce histological artifacts. This potential impact should be carefully considered when deciding whether to perform the procedure.
Insights
Multiphase postmortem computed tomographic angiography (MPMCTA) using contrast agents can cause histological artifacts. Forensic pathologists must consider these changes, such as empty spaces and vessel dilation, during analysis.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Pathology
- Medical Imaging
- Histopathology
Background:
- Multiphase postmortem computed tomographic angiography (MPMCTA) visualizes the cardiovascular system using contrast agents in cadavers.
- Understanding contrast-induced changes is crucial for accurate postmortem analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically describe histo-morphological changes and artifacts from contrast agent mixtures (Angiofil® and paraffin oil) used in MPMCTA.
- To evaluate the impact of contrast media on histological findings.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 278 histological samples from 37 cases undergoing MPMCTA and autopsy.
- Microscopic examination using an Olympus BX53 microscope and DP21 camera.
- Evaluation by three experienced forensic pathologists.
Main Results:
- Four main categories of artifacts were identified: optical empty spaces, compression of surrounding structures, hyperemia of small vessels, and vessel dilation.
- These artifacts are induced by the contrast agent injection process.
Conclusions:
- Postmortem angiography is valuable for vascular visualization.
- Contrast media can introduce significant histological artifacts.
- Careful consideration of these potential impacts is essential for interpreting MPMCTA results.
More Related Videos
08:13In Vivo Quantitative Assessment of Myocardial Structure, Function, Perfusion and Viability Using Cardiac Micro-computed Tomography
Published on: February 16, 2016
06:02Anatomical Reconstructions of the Human Cardiac Venous System using Contrast-computed Tomography of Perfusion-fixed Specimens
Published on: April 18, 2013
Related Concept Videos
01:28Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
01:27Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography