European journal of radiology
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To determine whether susceptibility map-weighted imaging (SMWI) was superior to conventional susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) in the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD) and in its correlation with 123I-2bcarbomethoxy-3b-(4-iodophenyl)-N-(3-fluoropropyl)-nortropane single photon emission computerized tomography (123I-FP-CIT SPECT). ⋯ SMWI may be a superior assessment tool for nigral hyperintensity than SWI and may be an improved diagnostic imaging modality for patients with suspected PD.
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The vascular enlargement (VE) pattern differs from previously described imaging patterns for pneumonia. This study aimed to investigate the incidence, computed tomography (CT) characteristics, and diagnostic value of the VE pattern in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). ⋯ The VE pattern is a valuable CT sign for differentiating COVID-19 from IVP, which correlates with more extensive or serious disease. A good understanding of the CT characteristics of the VE pattern may contribute to the early and accurate diagnosis of COVID-19 and prediction of the evolution of lesions.
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Chest computed tomography (CT) is considered a reliable imaging tool for COVID-19 pneumonia diagnosis, while lung ultrasound (LUS) has emerged as a potential alternative to characterize lung involvement. The aim of the study was to compare diagnostic performance of admission chest CT and LUS for the diagnosis of COVID-19. ⋯ Admission chest CT shows better performance than LUS for COVID-19 diagnosis, at varying disease prevalence. LUS is highly sensitive, but not specific for COVID-19.
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Previous studies based on voxel-based morphometry (VBM) had revealed brain gray matter (GM) changes in chronic smokers relative to nonsmokers. However, not all studies reported entirely consistent findings, or even opposite. The aim of this study was to conduct a quantitative meta-analysis of VBM studies of chronic smokers. ⋯ This meta-analysis indicated that chronic cigarette smokers had significant and robust brain GM alternations compared with nonsmokers. Longitudinal studies should be performed in the future to explore whether these brain regions could be used as potential therapeutic neuro-target for nicotine dependence.
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To define the prevalence of pulmonary thromboembolic (PTE) disease diagnosed on CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) in COVID-19 patients. To assess distribution of PTE and to evaluate for association between severity of COVID-19 disease, D-dimer values and incidence of PTE. ⋯ There is increased prevalence of PTE in patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 disease. D-dimer values may have potential in guiding anticoagulation therapy and prognostication.