Severe Chest Imaging Findings of Coronavirus Disease from March to November 2020 in Palestine

Abstract

Background: Due to the rising number of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases, the role of chest radiography and chest CT (computed tomography) scans is essential for rapid diagnosis. The purpose of this study is to provide a thorough analysis of imaging manifestations of patients infected with severe COVID-19. Methods: Through the Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS) a total of 131 chest radiographs and high-resolution chest CT scans (HRCT) were collected from five Palestinian governmental hospitals from March to November 2020. IBM SPSS Statistical Software Version 23 was used for analysis. Results: 131 patients were included in this study. 67(51.1%) were female while 64(49.9%) were male. The sample population had a mean age of 60 years ranging from 17-90 years. The most frequently occurring severe COVID-19 findings in HRCT (High-Resolution CT) scans were: GGO (ground glass opacity), interlobular septal thickening, air bronchogram, and pulmonary consolidations. The most common chest X-ray (CXR) findings were: GGO, consolidation, and reticular interstitial thickening. Patients 60 and older showed significantly increased incidence of atypical CT findings such as lymphadenopathy and reversed halo sign. A significant relationship between the age of the patients and COVID-19 findings was indicated through a P-value of 0.012. Conclusion: CT and CXR provide a thorough analysis of severe COVID-19 findings. Familiarity with predominant COVID-19 findings assists in early detection and management; therefore, enhancing the capabilities of healthcare systems worldwide.