Histological artifacts induced by the contrast agent in multi-phase post-mortem CT angiography (MPMCTA): Part II -...

Area of Science:

• Forensic Pathology
• Radiology
• Histopathology

Background:

• Multi-phase postmortem computed tomography angiography (MPMCTA) is a valuable tool in forensic pathology.
• Contrast medium injection in MPMCTA can create histo-morphological artifacts.
• Artifact behavior in pathological tissues is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize contrast-related artifacts in pathological tissues using MPMCTA.
• To assess the impact of underlying diseases on artifact morphology and distribution.
• To identify potential diagnostic pitfalls associated with these artifacts.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 37 sudden death cases undergoing MPMCTA.
• Examination of 190 histological samples with pathological alterations.
• Histological processing and analysis by forensic pathologists to identify and characterize artifacts.

Main Results:

• Contrast-related artifacts (optically empty spaces, vascular dilatation, hyperemia, compression) were observed in pathological tissues.
• Artifact distribution and morphology were modified by underlying conditions like inflammation, neoplasia, hemorrhage, and degeneration.
• Artifacts were found in vascular and extravascular compartments, particularly in hemorrhagic/necrotic areas.

Conclusions:

• MPMCTA induces reproducible artifacts in pathological tissues, influenced by disease.
• Awareness of these artifacts is crucial for accurate histopathological diagnosis.
• Recognizing artifacts supports the integrated use of imaging, autopsy, and histology in forensic practice.