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CT imaging of intrathoracic lymph nodes in dogs with bronchoscopically administered iodinated nanoparticles
L H Ketai1, B A Muggenberg, G L McIntire
1Department of Radiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque 87131, USA.
Rationale And Objectives:
The purpose of the study was to determine if airway instillation of iodinated nanoparticles results in contrast material enhancement of tracheobronchial lymph nodes in dogs.
Materials And Methods:
Eight dogs underwent intrabronchial instillation of iodinated nanoparticles; six dogs received 900 mg each, and two dogs received 450 mg each. Spiral computed tomography (CT) was then performed 2-34 days later.
Results:
CT scans obtained 2 days after instillation showed the presence of contrast material within the lung parenchyma but no nodal enhancement. Scans obtained 6-34 days after instillation showed enhancement of the right, left, and middle tracheobronchial lymph nodes (analogous to the mediastinal nodes in humans). Mean nodal attenuation on CT images was 117 HU +/- 43, and the mean nodal volume was 129 mm3 +/- 113. Histologic specimens of the nodes showed macrophage hyperplasia.
Conclusion:
Iodinated nanoparticles instilled into small airways are transported to the tracheobronchial lymph nodes, where they result in contrast enhancement.