Radiographics : a review publication of the Radiological Society of North America, Inc
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The authors report their experience with diaphragmatic structures that simulate intrahepatic masses at abdominal ultrasonography (US). In a series of 74 patients, diaphragmatic slips were the most common finding (34 patients). The slips could be differentiated from masses by scanning along their long axis to demonstrate elongated structures with multiple linear echoes. ⋯ Inversion of a hemidiaphragm, caused by a large pleural effusion or intrathoracic mass, was seen in 13 patients. Pleural masses affecting the diaphragm were seen in 13 patients; focal hypertrophy of a diaphragmatic crus simulated a mass in three. Real-time US allowed the differentiation of diaphragmatic abnormalities from lesions.
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This article, say the authors, serves as a reminder that the posterior articulations of the lumbar spine are key elements in the production of low back pain and sciatica.
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Prior to echocardiography, the recognition of serious heart disease in the cyanotic newborn or young infant could be extremely difficult. The profound hemodynamic changes taking place in the heart and lungs after birth influence the clinical manifestations of many cardiac disorders, and sometimes suggest the existence of a cardiac disorder when none is present. ⋯ If the reason for the infant's cyanosis or respiratory distress is not apparent from the history, physical examination, laboratory values, and chest radiograph; real time echocardiography should be performed to exclude or diagnose cyanotic congenital heart disease and persistent fetal circulation. This will prevent misdiagnosis in cyanotic infants and assure rapid and appropriate treatment.
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CT can accurately distinguish between ascites and pleural fluid if the four signs described here are all considered in each case. Used individually these signs may be indeterminate or misleading.