High-resolution Computed Tomography Research Articles

Clinical application of high-resolution spiral CT scanning in the diagnosis of auriculotemporal and ossicle

Precision and intelligence in evaluating the complexities of middle ear structures are required to diagnose auriculotemporal and ossicle-related diseases within otolaryngology. Due to the complexity of the anatomical details and the varied etiologies of illnesses such as trauma, chronic otitis media, and congenital anomalies, traditional diagnostic procedures may not yield accurate diagnoses. This research intends to enhance the diagnosis of diseases of the auriculotemporal region and ossicles by combining High-Resolution Spiral Computed Tomography (HRSCT) scanning with Deep Learning Techniques (DLT). This study employs a deep learning method, Convolutional Neural Network-UNet (CNN-UNet), to extract sub-pixel information from medical photos. This method equips doctors and researchers with cutting-edge resources, leading to groundbreaking discoveries and better patient healthcare. The research effort is the interaction between the CNN-UNet model and high-resolution Computed Tomography (CT) scans, automating activities including ossicle segmentation, fracture detection, and disruption cause classification, accelerating the diagnostic process and increasing clinical decision-making. The suggested HRSCT-DLT model represents the integration of high-resolution spiral CT scans with the CNN-UNet model, which has been fine-tuned to address the nuances of auriculotemporal and ossicular diseases. This novel combination improves diagnostic efficiency and our overall understanding of these intricate diseases. The results of this study highlight the promise of combining high-resolution CT scanning with the CNN-UNet model in otolaryngology, paving the way for more accurate diagnosis and more individualized treatment plans for patients experiencing auriculotemporal and ossicle-related disruptions.

Clinical efficacy of bronchoalveolar lavage in the treatment of small airway diseases in children

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in the treatment of children with small airway diseases.MethodsChildren [n = 112; boys: 76, girls: 36 (ratio 2.1:1); age range: 1 month–10 years; median age: 12 months] with small airway diseases diagnosed by high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) were enrolled in this study. The patients were assigned to either the BAL group (BAL and conventional therapy) or the control group (conventional therapy only). The duration of cough, fever, wheezing, hospitalization duration, disease course before admission, treatment cost, HRCT recovery time, and re-hospitalization rate were compared between the two groups.ResultsThe median disease course before admission of the BAL group patients was longer than that of the controls (p = 0.006). The duration of cough and wheezing in the BAL group was significantly longer than that in the control group (p = 0.012 and p = 0.001, respectively). The recovery time of cough, the re-hospitalization rate, and the total expenditure incurred for the BAL group were lower than those for the control group (p = 0.027, p = 0.026, and p = 0.000, respectively). At 2 months after discharge, the small airway lesions were found to be absorbed in 86.2% of BAL group patients vs. 64.1% of control group patients. At 6 months after discharge, the lesions were not fully absorbed in 3.4% of the BAL group patients compared to 20.5% in the control group patients.ConclusionBAL is suitable for patients with a long disease course before admission, a long duration of coughing, and recurrent wheezing. BAL treatment of small airway diseases in children can promote the disappearance of clinical symptoms, accelerate the improvement of imaging, reduce the rate of re-hospitalization, and reduce the cost of treatment.

A machine learning method for precise detection of spine bone mineral density

Osteoporosis is prevalent among the elderly and requires precise diagnostic approaches for effective treatment and prevention. This work introduces a machine learning-based method for the accurate grading of osteoporosis via the analysis of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) images of the spine. This approach allows for the precise extraction of the trabecular component of vertebral bodies, thereby enabling accurate measurement of bone density. Evaluated in 183 individuals, our method demonstrated enhanced stability in bone density prediction and reduced bias when juxtaposed with traditional random sampling techniques. Despite the inherent risk of overestimation, the machine learning model more accurately approximates the actual bone quality compared to conventional clinical methods, which typically involve the random extraction of 3–4 trabecular bone slices from the spine. These findings offer a novel approach to the clinical assessment of osteoporosis, underscoring the significant potential of integrating machine learning into existing medical image analysis workflows.

Contact area analysis of an asphalt-concrete boundary layer with X-ray computed tomography imaging

This study focusses on the bond between asphalt and concrete. The bond is a decisive factor for the transfer of traffic loads. A lack of bond between the layers can quickly reduce the load-bearing behavior and thus lead to pavement failure. In the literature, the bond between asphalt pavements and concrete substrates is usually analyzed using mechanical test methods. With mechanical test methods, the effects of interlocking, glue adhesion and friction, which have an effect at the layer boundary, are not considered individually. Based on previous findings, the aim of this study is to carry out a precise analysis of the bonding at the layer interface between concrete and asphalt using bitumen emulsion by means of measurements with a high-resolution X-ray computer tomography (CT). To determine the effect of the surface texture of the substrate, the investigations were carried out on milled and smooth surface textures. In addition to the variation of the substrate profiles, the influence of the application quantity of the bitumen emulsions C40 B5-S and C60 BP4-S was analyzed by spraying quantities of 90 g/m² and 180 g/m² bitumen after breaking. A newly developed method was used to determine the effective degree of gluing at the layer boundary, which allowed the bonding efficiency to be determined. The results of the calculated degree of gluing for the individual variants show that the highest degree of gluing of 61.94% is achieved with the smooth texture variant and high application quantity of bitumen emulsion. The lowest degree of gluing of 17.01% was achieved with the milled texture variant without the application of bitumen emulsion. Overall, the results showed that the degree of gluing was increased for both surface textures by applying the bitumen emulsion. Compared to the smooth texture, the milled textures exhibit a lower degree of gluing for both bitumen quantities, which could be explained by the distribution of the bitumen emulsions on the substrate profiles.

Diagnostic accuracy of high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of chest in diagnosing sputum smear positive and sputum smear negative pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB).

Objective: To assess the diagnostic accuracy of high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of chest in diagnosing sputum smear positive and negative pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Tertiary Care Hospital, Kharian Cantt. Period: Oct 2021 to April 2022. Methods: The retrospective reviews of medical records of patients undergone HRCT chest and sputum for AFB smear and culture due to pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) suspicion were included. The HRCT and AFB findings for sample size of 220 was compared. SPSS was used to stratify outcomes on basis of sputum smear results. Diagnostic accuracy of HRCT chest was calculated by taking AFB as gold standard. The AFB findings and HRCT outcomes were compared through correlation analysis and paired t-test with p value < 0.05 considered as significant. Results: The sensitivity was found to be 86.23% with specificity of 86.48%, positive predictive value of 86.23%, negative predictive value of 86.48% and diagnostic accuracy of 86.36% for HRCT for diagnosing pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). Conclusion: HRCT chest affirms high diagnostic potential for pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and should be used as a routine diagnostic tool for the disease.

Screening value of lung ultrasound and pleural shear wave elastography in connective tissue disease-related interstitial lung disease: a preliminary study.

To explore the diagnostic value of lung ultrasound (LUS) and pleural shear wave elastography (SWE) for connective tissue disease-interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD). We selected 104 patients diagnosed with connective tissue disease (CTD) at our hospital. All patients underwent LUS, SWE, and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). With HRCT as the imaging gold standard for diagnosis, patients were categorized into CTD-ILD and CTD-non-ILD groups. We employed paired chi-square tests to compare the diagnostic differences between HRCT and LUS for ILD. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess the diagnostic value of pleural SWE for ILD. Correlation analysis was performed between pleural elasticity values and lung ultrasound scores. The sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio of LUS for diagnosing CTD-ILD were 93.3%, 86.2%, 6.761, and 0.078, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the results between HRCT and LUS (P = 1.000), with a kappa value of 0.720 (P < 0.001). There was a statistically significant difference in the pleural elasticity in the bilateral lower back region between the case and control groups (P < 0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) for pleural SWE in diagnosing CTD-ILD was 0.685. In CTD-ILD patients, there was no significant correlation between pleural elasticity values and LUS scores (P > 0.05). The LUS can serve as an important imaging method for screening for CTD-ILD and assessing the severity of the disease. However, pleural SWE has been shown to demonstrate lower diagnostic efficacy for CTD-ILD, and its ability to assess disease severity is limited.

[The value of HRCT in predicting cerebrospinal fluid gusher during cochlear implantation].

Objective:To investigate the predictive value of temporal bone high-resolution CT（HRCT） multiplanar reconstruction（MPR） for cerebrospinal fluid（CSF） gusher during cochlear implantation in patients with inner ear malformation. Methods:The clinical data of 33 patients（36 ears） with inner ear malformation who underwent cochlear implantation were retrospectively analyzed. The predictive value of HRCT for cerebrospinal fluid gusher during cochlear implantation was evaluated. Results:The width of the cochlear foramen（P=0.024, OR=1.735） and the diameter of the inner auditory meatus（P=0.022, OR=6.119） were independent risk factors for CSF gusher during cochlear implantation. The area under the curve（AUC） of cochlear foramen width in predicting intraoperative gusher was 0.851, the sensitivity was 93.33%, and the specificity was 61.90%. The AUC of the upper and lower diameter of the internal auditory canal for predicting intraoperative gusher was 0.848, the sensitivity was 80.00%, and the specificity was 80.95%. The AUC of cochlear foramen width combined with the upper and lower diameters of the internal auditory meatus for predicting intraoperative gusher was 0.930, the sensitivity was 80.00%, and the specificity was 95.24%. Conclusion:Based on temporal bone HRCT, the prediction model of cochlear foramen width combined with the upper and lower diameter of the internal auditory canal has crucial predictive value for the "gusher" during cochlear implantation in patients with inner ear malformation.

Lung outcomes and related risk factors in patients after SARS-CoV-2 infection: a hospitalised single-centre cohort from Johannesburg, South Africa

Sequelae post-SARS-CoV-2 infection, including lung and functional impairment, pose a significant challenge post-recovery. We explored the burden and risk factors for post-COVID-19 sequelae in an African population with prevalent comorbidities including tuberculosis (TB) and HIV. We conducted an observational cohort study on hospitalised adults with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection from 20 March to 06 October 2021at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, South Africa. We collected data on comorbidities, and COVID-19 severity using the World Health Organization (WHO) clinical progression scale. Prospectively, we followed up all participants within 40-days post-discharge to assess body mass index (BMI), COVID-19 symptoms and quality of life using St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), 6-min walking-test (6MWT), and spirometry. A subsequent in-depth visit assessed plethysmography, diffusing capacity for the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO), and high-resolution chest-CT. We followed up 111 participants, where 65.8% were female, median age 50.5 years, and predominantly black-African (92.8%). Relevant comorbidities included TB disease (18.9%) and HIV infection (36%). SGRQ total scores were elevated in 78.9%, median 6MWT distance was reduced at 300m (IQR 210-400), and nearly half (49.5%) exhibited spirometry findings below the lower limit of normal (LLN). In-depth pulmonary assessment for 61 participants revealed abnormalities in total lung capacity (31.6%<80% predicted), DLCO (53.4%<80% predicted), and chest-CT (86.7% abnormal). Significant risk factors for individual abnormal outcomes, adjusted for age and sex, were TB disease, HIV with CD4 <200cells/mm3, BMI <18.5kg/m2 and >35kg/m2, and initial COVID-19 severity. This study demonstrates substantial lung and functional morbidity within the first weeks post-COVID-19, particularly in individuals with pre-existing comorbidities including TB, HIV, and low or high BMI. Chest-CT and DLCO show best early potential at reflecting COVID-19-related pathologies. The Bavarian State Ministry of Science and Arts.

The effect of nintedanib on health-related quality of life in Japanese patients with progressive fibrosing interstitial lung diseases: A subset analysis of the INBUILD trial

BackgroundIn previous Japanese subgroup/subset analyses of the global INBUILD trial, nintedanib reduced the annual rate of forced vital capacity (FVC) decline and the risk of disease progression in patients with progressive fibrosing interstitial lung diseases (PF-ILDs). This exploratory subset analysis assessed the effect of nintedanib on symptoms and impacts of pulmonary fibrosis in Japanese patients with PF-ILDs, including those with usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP)-like fibrotic pattern on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). MethodsThis analysis included Japanese patients who received at least one dose of study treatment in the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled INBUILD trial. The Living with Pulmonary Fibrosis (L-PF) questionnaire was used to assess pulmonary fibrosis symptoms and impacts (higher scores indicated greater impairment) at baseline and weeks 12–52. ResultsIn total, 108 Japanese patients (nintedanib: n = 52; placebo: n = 56) were included; 84 patients had UIP-like fibrotic pattern on HRCT. In the total Japanese subgroup and in those with UIP-like fibrotic pattern, numerically greater increases in L-PF total, symptoms total, symptoms fatigue domain, and impacts scores were observed in the placebo group than in the nintedanib group at all timepoints, starting from week 12. A numerically greater increase in the symptoms dyspnea domain score was observed with placebo versus nintedanib starting from week 36. Throughout the study, the symptoms cough domain score increased in the placebo group but decreased in the nintedanib group. ConclusionsOur findings demonstrate that nintedanib has the potential to reduce the worsening of symptoms and impacts of pulmonary fibrosis in Japanese patients with PF-ILDs.

Tele-ICU Management of a Trauma Patient at a Peripheral Center

Methods: A 23-year-old male was admitted to a peripheral center following a fall from a tractor. Examination at admission revealed a conscious, stable patient with significant chest pain. The tele-ICU (intensive care unit) was called, and when they received the patient, he was stabilized and managed immediately. The tele-ICU connection was provided through the Command Center in Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, India, which is connected to multiple spoke locations at peripheral centers using audio-visual aids. An intensivist is available 24 h daily to provide critical care services to the peripheral centers through audio-visual aids. The tele-ICU connection is provided to the peripheral centers through commercial audio-visual and bedside data transfer devices. The tele-ICU team supervised the primary survey remotely via a central monitor, viewing the patient’s vitals along with the audio/video calling capabilities of the cameras as a part of the tele-ICU program. Results: Chest X-rays showed bilateral pneumothorax, lung compression, and multiple rib fractures. The team at the peripheral center was immediately advised to institute bilateral intercostal drainage (ICD). High-resolution CT chest (HRCT) reveals extensive right and minor left pneumothorax, bilateral lung contusions, a right clavicle medial end fracture, and multiple rib fractures. Ultrasonography of the abdomen showed altered splenic echo texture and moderate left pleural effusion. Flail chest and paradoxical breathing pattern warranted endotracheal intubation. The patient was ventilated for 4 days. On day 3, the patient experienced an air leak from the left ICD, increased drain output, and decreased hemoglobin. The tele-ICU team consulted the cardiothoracic surgeon regarding the air leak and followed their advice to attach a vacuum bottle to the ICD. The patient’s breathing improved gradually. Mechanical ventilator settings (i.e., tidal volume, respiratory rate, and peak airway pressures) were reviewed daily by the tele-ICU team during the regular morning and evening rounds. In addition, the ventilator and the bedside monitor were continuously monitored from the Command Center through video conferencing, which is integrated with electronic software and regularly captures the patient’s vitals. After 4 days of mechanical ventilation, the patient was extubated and started on oxygen therapy. Oxygen was gradually tapered and stopped. After 8 days of uneventful hospitalization, the patient was discharged. Conclusion: Studies show that telemedicine can provide expert-guided mentoring for life-saving procedures, including pre-hospital assessment and triage for polytrauma, tube thoracotomies, and extended focused assessment with sonography in trauma (eFAST). Technology may help resource-constrained places adopt telemedicine and its benefits.

Correlation of Disease Severity with High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) Severity Scores in COVID-19 Patients - A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: To determine the relationship of High-Resolution Computed Tomography Chest Severity Scores with disease severity in COVID-19 patients.Study Design: Cross-sectional study.Place and Duration of Study: Pak-Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Oct to Dec 2021.Methodology: The study included 173 symptomatic patients with positive COVID polymerase chain reaction. All patients underwent high-resolution computed tomography chest scans and were given severity scores (from 0 to 40) based on the number of lung segments involved. Disease severity was assessed based on oxygen saturation at room air, C-reactive protein levels, and morality on the 21st day. High-resolution chest computed tomography scores were compared with parameters of disease severity.Results: Out of a total of 173 patients, 139(80%) were male, and 34(20%) were female, with a mean age of 62.79±13.87 years (17-92 years). Chest computed tomography severity scores were positively correlated with C-reactive protein levels and mortality on the 21st day (p&lt;0.001). Oxygen saturation at room air decreased with increased involvement in chest scans.Conclusion: Our data suggested that high-resolution computed tomography scores are highly correlated with disease severity and patient outcomes, particularly mortality, in Coronavirus patients

The diagnostic impact of fractional exhaled nitric oxide for asthmatic cough in nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease.

Measurement of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is a potentially useful diagnostic test for asthma. However, no study has explored the relationship between FeNO and respiratory symptoms of nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) complicated with asthma. The objective of this study was to assess the utility of measuring FeNO levels in patients with NTM-PD complicated by asthma. In this single-center retrospective cohort study, 140 NTM-PD patients with FeNO measured were enrolled. We selected NTM-PD patients who complicated with asthma as the NTM+BA group, defined using the following criteria: NTM patients with symptoms consistent with asthma, and NTM patients with symptomatic improvement after diagnostic therapy with ICS ± a long-acting beta 2-agonist (LABA). We then calculated a diagnostic cutoff point to distinguish between the NTM+BA groups and the NTM groups (all others). High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) images were evaluated using the CT scoring system and their association with FeNO was examined. A total of 89 patients were included in the study. (31 in the NTM+BA group and 58 in the NTM group). Compared with the NTM group, the NTM+BA group had higher rates of allergic disease (51.6% vs. 22.4%; p=0.0085) and higher FeNO values (median, 23 [interquartile range {IQR}, 15.0-43.0] ppb vs. median, 17 [IQR, 11.8-23.0] ppb; p=0.015). With diagnostic asthma care using mainly ICS/LABA with reference to the FeNO, most patients (91.0%, 20/22) in the NTM-preceding subgroup in the NTM+BA group demonstrated a prompt improvement of their symptoms and AFB culture findings did not worsen (Culture positive rate (%): Pre-treatment: 59.1% vs. Post-treatment: 40.9%, p=0.3660) at 6 months after starting diagnostic therapy. The optimal diagnostic cutoff point of FeNO to distinguish between the two groups was calculated as 21.5 ppb by the ROC curve (sensitivity 75%, specificity 71.93%, p<0.0001; area under the curve: 0.7989). No significant correlation was observed between FeNO and the severity of CT images in the patients. A certain number of patients with NTM-PD showed exacerbated respiratory symptoms due to asthmatic complications. Elevated FeNO levels suggest asthma complications, even in patients with NTM.

Radiosynthesis automation, non-human primate biodistribution and dosimetry of K+ channel tracer [11C]3MeO4AP

Background4-Aminopyridine (4AP) is a medication for the symptomatic treatment of multiple sclerosis. Several 4AP-based PET tracers have been developed for imaging demyelination. In preclinical studies, [11C]3MeO4AP has shown promise due to its high brain permeability, high metabolic stability, high plasma availability, and high in vivo binding affinity. To prepare for the translation to human studies, we developed a cGMP-compatible automated radiosynthesis protocol and evaluated the whole-body biodistribution and radiation dosimetry of [11C]3MeO4AP in non-human primates (NHPs).MethodsAutomated radiosynthesis was carried out using a GE TRACERlab FX-C Pro synthesis module. One male and one female adult rhesus macaques were used in the study. A high-resolution CT from cranial vertex to knee was acquired. PET data were collected using a dynamic acquisition protocol with four bed positions and 13 passes over a total scan time of ~ 150 min. Based on the CT and PET images, volumes of interest (VOIs) were manually drawn for selected organs. Non-decay corrected time-activity curves (TACs) were extracted for each VOI. Radiation dosimetry and effective dose were calculated from the integrated TACs using OLINDA software.ResultsFully automated radiosynthesis of [11C]3MeO4AP was achieved with 7.3 ± 1.2% (n = 4) of non-decay corrected radiochemical yield within 38 min of synthesis and purification time. [11C]3MeO4AP distributed quickly throughout the body and into the brain. The organs with highest dose were the kidneys. The average effective dose of [11C]3MeO4AP was 4.0 ± 0.6 μSv/MBq. No significant changes in vital signs were observed during the scan.ConclusionA cGMP-compatible automated radiosynthesis of [11C]3MeO4AP was developed. The whole-body biodistribution and radiation dosimetry of [11C]3MeO4AP was successfully evaluated in NHPs. [11C]3MeO4AP shows lower average effective dose than [18F]3F4AP and similar average effective dose as other carbon-11 tracers.

Case Report: Scrub Typhus manifesting as Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) with corresponding radiological findings

Background Scrub typhus is a life-threatening infectious disease endemic in the Asia-Pacific region. It typically presents with nonspecific symptoms such as fever, headache, and myalgia, making early diagnosis challenging. Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a severe pulmonary condition characterized by acute-onset hypoxemia, bilateral lung infiltrates on radiology, and increased pulmonary capillary permeability. Case Presentation An 18-year-old female student in central India presented with a seven-day history of recurrent fever, chills, dry cough, and severe shortness of breath, escalating to Modified Medical Research Council dyspnea grade III-IV. After unsuccessful local clinic treatment, a chest radiograph revealed bilateral pneumonia. On admission, she displayed tachycardia, tachypnea, hypotension, and hypoxia requiring non-invasive ventilation (NIV). Computed tomography confirmed scrub typhus-associated pneumonia, and serological testing was positive for scrub typhus. She was diagnosed with moderate ARDS and began treatment. Symptomatic improvement was seen in the ICU, and she was discharged on day 10 with radiological and clinical resolution. Management and Outcomes She received intravenous doxycycline and oral azithromycin for scrub typhus and any potential concurrent lung infection. In the ICU, she required continuous NIV and supplemental oxygen, with significant symptomatic improvement, evidenced by reduced tachypnoea and oxygen requirements after 72 hours. She was weaned off NIV and monitored for an additional four days. After satisfactory oxygen saturation on room air, she was discharged on the tenth day. High-resolution CT scan demonstrated resolution of ground glass opacities and consolidation. Sequential chest radiographs exhibited gradual reduction in bilateral alveolar infiltrates over time, in parallel with clinical improvement. Laboratory findings, including reduced CRP and D-dimer values, and a normal hemogram on discharge indicated a resolution of leukopenia. Conclusion This case underscores the importance of early recognition and intervention in scrub typhus-associated ARDS and highlights the utility of timely diagnostic imaging in monitoring the progress of the disease.

Measurement of stapes footplate thickness using ultra-high-resolution computed tomography: stapes axial plane correlates better with otosclerosis than lateral semicircular canal plane

Background, Aims Stapes footplate thickness measurement using ultra-high-resolution CT has been described only in the lateral semicircular canal plane. The purpose of this study was to compare stapes footplate thickness between the lateral semicircular canal and stapes axial planes in patients with otosclerosis compared to controls. Material and methods We performed a retrospective single-center study of patients undergoing high-resolution temporal bone CT. Two radiologists measured stapes footplate thickness in both the lateral semicircular canal and stapes axial planes. Results Between February 2020 and October 2022, we collected 81 ears from 49 patients (75% of women; mean age 51.22 ± 16.6 years, 17 otosclerosis, and 64 controls). In the stapes axial plane, there was a significant anterior thickening in otosclerosis patients (Reader 1: 0.52 ± 0.12 [0.3-0.7] vs. 0.41 ± 0.08 [0.3-0.6], p = 0.001; Reader 2: 0.54 ± 0.06 [0.5-0.7] vs. 0.39 ± 0.08 [0.2-0.6], P < 0.001) compared to controls. These differences were not significant using the lateral semicircular canal plane. Conclusion The stapes footplate was thickened at its AC in otosclerosis patients using only the stapes axial plane. Significance We propose to use the stapes axial plane instead of the lateral semicircular canal plane when analyzing the stapes.

P136 KL6 and IL-18 levels are negatively correlated with respiratory function tests and interstitial lung disease extent assessed on high-resolution computed tomography in patients with systemic sclerosis-related interstitial lung disease

Abstract Background/Aims Serum biomarkers have been suggested as indicators for pulmonary damage with clinical value in the diagnosis and prognosis of SSc-ILD. We aim to investigate the role of serum biomarkers (Krebs von den Lungen-6 KL-6, IL-18 and IL- 18BP) as potential biomarkers reflecting the severity of SSc-ILD as assessed through high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and pulmonary function tests (PFT). Methods A cross-sectional study including patients with SSc fulfilling the 2013 ACR/EULAR criteria was performed. Patients were classified according to disease duration and pulmonary involvement. All SSc patients underwent chest HRCT scans and pulmonary function test at baseline. Serum concentration of KL-6, IL8 and IL18BP were determined usingsandwich ELISA technique (solid phase sandwich Enzyme Linked-Immunosorbent Assay), with kits from MyBiosource for KL-6 and from Invitrogen for IL18 and IL18BP. A semiquantitative grade of ILD extent was evaluated through HRCT scan (grade 1, 0-20%; grade 2, &amp;gt;20%). Extensive lung disease was defined as &amp;gt; 20% of lung involvement on HRCT, and FVC &amp;lt;70% predicted and limited lung involvement as ≤ 20% of ILD involvement on HRCT,and an FVC ≥70% predicted. Results 74 patients were included, 27% were male, with a mean age of 57.5±15 years. 28 patients had ILD (38%). 64 % of patients had &amp;lt;20% of ILD extent classified through HRCT scan. SSc-ILD patients had elevated serum KL- 6 and IL-18 levels compared to patients without ILD (p = 0.003 and p = 0.04). A negative correlation between KL-6 levels and %FVC (β=-0.25, p 0.037) and %DLCO (β=-0.28, p 0.02) and between IL-18 levels and %FVC (β=-0.20, p 0.03) and %DLCO (β=-0.14, p 0.04) were found. Serum KL-6 and IL-18 levels successfully differentiated grades I and II (p = 0.028 and p = 0.021). Semiquantitative grades of ILD on the HRCT scan were significantly proportional to the KL-6 (p 0.01) and IL-18 (p = 0.03). A positive correlation between extensive lung disease and KL-6 (β = 0.61, p 0.007) but not with IL-18 was found. Conclusion Serum KL-6 levels and IL-18 were increased in patients with SSc-ILD and showed a positive correlation with ILD severity as measured using a semiquantitative HRCT grading scale and a negative correlation with PFT parameters. Disclosure C. Sieiro Santos: None. S. Calleja Antolín: None. J. de la Calle Lorenzo: None. E. Bollo de Miguel: None. E. Díez Álvarez: None.

OA28 The use of ACE and sIL2-R in a large tertiary cohort of patients with multi-system sarcoidosis

Abstract Background/Aims Sarcoidosis is a systemic inflammatory disorder characterised by the formation of non-caseating granulomas, and can affect almost any organ, ranging from self-limiting to a chronic and progressive disease. There are no validated biomarkers that help establish diagnosis or monitor disease progression. Serum Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) is used in clinical practice despite some studies reporting a poor reflection of disease activity. Soluble interleukin 2 receptor (sIL-2R) is being used with increasing frequency and may be a useful tool in establishing diagnosis and monitoring disease progression. Our objectives were to evaluate the use of ACE and sIL2-R in a large tertiary cohort of patients with multisystem sarcoidosis. Methods This was an observational cohort study. Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of sarcoidosis at King’s College Hospital between 2013 and 2023 were identified. Demographics, symptoms onset, clinical features, ACE, sIL2-R, high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), Positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT), histology and immunomodulating therapy were extracted from electronic health records. Cross sectional correlations between ACE and sIL2-R was assessed by Spearman’s correlation coefficient (rs). Results Data were extracted for 196 individuals diagnosed with sarcoidosis. The mean age was 55 (SD 16) with a female and black predominance (table 1). A prior exposure risk of silica or dust was identified in 5 individuals. At diagnosis the most frequently reported organ involvement was lung (65%), eye (20%), musculoskeletal (13%) and skin (12%). Organ involvement on PET-CT was seen in 77%. 22% had interstitial lung disease (ILD) confirmed on HRCT and 3% had myocarditis on cardiac MRI. Steroids were commenced in 56%, with a mean dose of 19mg (SD 13mg). The mean duration of follow up was 7 years (IQR 2.9-14.4), 11% developed symptoms suggestive of new organ involvement, 7% had PET-CT evidence of new organ involvement, 4% had evidence of ILD progression and 14% underwent re-initiation or escalation of steroid therapy. 42% (n = 82) had results for both sIL2-R and ACE biomarkers. The median ACE was 55u/L (IQR 40-83) and sIL2-R 1781ng/L (IQR 1328-2436). 50% (41/82) had a sIL2-R &amp;gt;1800ng/L and 59% (48/82) had an ACE &amp;gt;50u/L. Interestingly, 32% (13/41) with a sIL2-R &amp;gt;1800 had a normal ACE and 42% (20/41) with an ACE &amp;gt;50 had a normal sIL2-R results. sIL2-R correlated with ACE (rs = 0.34, p = 0.0018). There was no significant difference in ACE levels in those taking ACE inhibitors (n = 9) compared to those (n = 73) not: 55u/L (IQR 41-83) versus 39u/L (IQR 30-65) p = 0.30. Conclusion sIL2-R significantly correlated with serum ACE, although the rs value is not particularly strong, suggesting other factors may be influencing the relationship. These biomarkers represent different aspects of the disease; serum ACE reflects granulomatous inflammation whilst sIL2-R implies immune system activation and T-cell involvement, which may explain our findings. Disclosure M. Hughes: None. K. Bechman: Honoraria; UCB, Viforpharma. Grants/research support; NIHR, Versus Arthritis/Pfizer. R. Roy: None. M. Omar: None. D. Mehta: None. D. Nagra: None. S. Walsh: None. S.S. Birring: None. D.M. Sado: None. P.A. Brex: None. J. Galloway: Honoraria; Abbvie, Biovitrum, Bristol Myers Squib (BMS), Celgene, Chugai, Gilead, Janssen, Lilly, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, Sanofi, Sobi, UCB.

Progressive Pulmonary Fibrosis and Interstitial Lung Abnormalities: AJR Expert Panel Narrative Review.

Progressive pulmonary fibrosis (PPF) and interstitial lung abnormalities (ILA) are relatively new concepts in interstitial lung disease (ILD) imaging and clinical management. Recognition of signs of PPF, as well as identification and classification of ILA, are important tasks during chest high-resolution CT interpretation, to optimize management of patients with ILD and those at risk of developing ILD. However, following professional society guidance, the role of imaging surveillance remains unclear in stable patients with ILD, asymptomatic patients with ILA who are at risk of progression, and asymptomatic patients at risk of developing ILD without imaging abnormalities. In this AJR Expert Panel Narrative Review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding PPF and ILA and describe the range of clinical practice with respect to imaging patients with ILD, those with ILA, and those at risk of developing ILD. In addition, we offer suggestions to help guide surveillance imaging in areas with an absence of published guidelines, where such decisions are currently driven primarily by local pulmonologists' preference.

Toupet fundoplication to prevent progression of scleroderma-associated interstitial lung damage: a study protocol

Summary Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune and multiorgan disorder. Hallmarks of the disease include inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and dysregulation of fibroblasts leading to fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The esophagus is often involved, with up to 80% of patients developing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Reflux can be associated with hiatal hernia and several complications such as erosive esophagitis, peptic stricture, Barrett’s esophagus, aspiration pneumonia, and chronic microaspiration. Silent aspiration can lead to interstitial lung disease (ILD) in up to 50% of patients with scleroderma and accounts for up to 40% of mortality. Treatment of GERD in patients with SSc is challenging. Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) have been shown effective in relieving typical GERD symptoms, but up to 40% of patients are non-responders. Various antireflux surgical procedures have been proposed to treat GERD and to modify the natural course of the disease by preventing lung damage in these patients. However, current algorithms consider only the degree of esophageal dilation as a marker of disease severity/progression, and results of antireflux surgery remain controversial. Methods We propose a feasibility, observational, multicenter, single-arm trial including adult patients diagnosed with SSc. Criteria for inclusion are individuals with GERD symptoms refractory to PPI, absence of peptic stricture at baseline endoscopy, high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan showing no or less than 10% lung fibrosis, forced vital capacity at least 40% of the predicted value, and diffusing capacity of lung for carbon monoxide 30–89% of the predicted value. A laparoscopic partial posterior fundoplication according to the Toupet technique will be performed. Primary study outcome is the efficacy of fundoplication to reduce reflux exposure measured with a pH-impedance study or 4‑day wireless pH recording. Secondary outcomes include endoscopic, HRCT, and respiratory function tests findings as well as quality of life at 12-month follow-up. Conclusions The expected reduction of reflux burden in SSc patients selected for Toupet fundoplication may improve GERD symptoms/complications, pulmonary function, and quality of life, and may be associated with a reduced risk for lung transplant.

Comparison of vestibular aqueduct visualization on computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in patients with Ménière’s disease

BackgroundThe vestibular aqueduct (VA) serves an essential role in homeostasis of the inner ear and pathogenesis of Ménière’s disease (MD). The bony VA can be clearly depicted by high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), whereas the optimal sequences and parameters for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are not yet established. We investigated VA characteristics and potential factors influencing MRI-VA visibility in unilateral MD patients.MethodsOne hundred patients with unilateral MD underwent MRI with three-dimensional sampling perfection with application optimized contrasts using different flip angle evolutions (3D-SPACE) sequence and HRCT evaluation. The imaging variables included MRI-VA and CT-VA visibility, CT-VA morphology and CT-peri-VA pneumatization.ResultsThe most frequent type of MRI-VA and CT-VA visualization was invisible VA and continuous VA, respectively. The MRI-VA visibility was significantly lower than CT-VA visibility. MRI-VA visibility had a weak positive correlation with ipsilateral CT-VA visualization. For the affected side, the MRI-VA visualization was negatively correlated with the incidence of obliterated-shaped CT-VA and positively with that of tubular-shaped CT-VA. MRI-VA visualization was not affected by CT-peri-VA pneumatization.ConclusionIn patients with MD, the VA visualization on 3D-SPACE MRI is poorer than that observed on CT and may be affected by its osseous configuration. These findings may provide a basis for further characterization of VA demonstrated by MRI and its clinical significance.