Non-contrast CT Scan Research Articles

Segmentation of infarct lesions and prognosis prediction for acute ischemic stroke using non-contrast CT scans

Background and PurposeIschemic stroke is the most common type of stroke and the second leading cause of global mortality. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Non-contrast CT (NCCT) scans are commonly employed as the first-line imaging modality to identify the infarct lesion and affected brain areas, as well as to make prognostic predictions to guide the subsequent treatment planning. However, visual evaluation of infarct lesions in NCCT scans can be subjective and inconsistent due to reliance on expert experience. MethodsIn this study, we propose an automatic method using VB-Net with dual-channel inputs to segment acute infarct lesions (AIL) on NCCT scans and extract affected ASPECTS (Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score) regions. Secondly, we establish a prediction model to distinguish reperfused patients from non-reperfused patients after treatment, based on multi-dimensional radiological features of baseline NCCT and stroke onset time. Thirdly, we create a prediction model estimating the infarct volume after a period of time, by combining NCCT infarct volume, radiological features, and surgical decision. ResultsThe median Dice coefficient of the AIL segmentation network is 0.76. Based on this, the patient triage model has an AUC of 0.837 (95 % confidence interval [CI]: 0.734–0.941), sensitivity of 0.833 (95 % CI: 0.626–0.953). The predicted follow-up infarct volume correlates strongly with the DWI ground truth, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.931. ConclusionsOur proposed pipeline offers qualitative and quantitative assessment of infarct lesions based on NCCT scans, facilitating physicians in patient triage and prognosis prediction.

Carotid plaque thickness predicts cardiovascular events and death in patients with chronic kidney disease

BackgroundClassical risk scoring systems underestimate the risk of cardiovascular disease in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) has improved prediction of cardiovascular events in patients with CKD. The maximal carotid plaque thickness (cPTmax) measured in ultrasound scans of the carotid arteries has demonstrated similar predictive value as CACS in the general population. This is the first study to investigate whether cPTmax can predict cardiovascular events in CKD and to compare the predictive value of cPTmax and CACS in CKD.MethodTwo hundred patients with CKD stage 3 from the Copenhagen CKD Cohort underwent ultrasound scanning of the carotid arteries. The assessment consisted of locating plaque and measuring the thickest part of the plaque, cPTmax. Based on the distribution of cPTmax, the participants were divided into 3 groups: No plaques, cPTmax 1.0–1.9 mm and cPTmax > 1.9 mm (median cPTmax = 1.9 mm among patients with plaques). To measure CACS, 175 of the patients underwent a non-contrast CT scan of the coronary arteries. The follow-up time spanned between the ultrasound scan and a predefined end-date or the time of first event, defined as a composite of major cardiovascular events or death of any cause (MACE).ResultsThe median follow-up time was 5.4 years during which 45 patients (22.5%) developed MACE. In a Cox-regression adjusted for classical cardiovascular risk factors, patients with cPTmax > 1.9 mm had a significantly increased hazard ratio of MACE (HR 3.2, CI: 1.1–9.3), p = 0.031) compared to patients without plaques. C-statistics was used to evaluate models for predicting MACE. The improvement in C-statistics was similar for the two models including classical cardiovascular risk factors plus cPTmax (0.247, CI: 0.181–0.312) and CACS (0.243, CI: 0.172–0.315), respectively, when compared to a model only controlled for time since baseline (a Cox model with no covariates).ConclusionOur results indicate that cPTmax may be useful for predicting MACE in CKD. cPTmax and CACS showed similar ability to predict MACE.

AI-enabled cardiac chambers volumetry in non-contrast coronary artery calcium CT scans vs. contrast-enhanced coronary CT angiography scans in the same patients

Abstract Introduction We have developed an AI-enabled automated volumetry of cardiac chambers (AutoChamber) that works both on non-contrast ECG-gated cardiac CT scans used for coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, and non-contrast non-gated lung cancer screening CT scans. We have recently reported the agreement between AutoChamber measurements vs cardiac MRI measurements. Here we report AutoChamber results on non-contrast CAC scans and contrast enhanced coronary CT angiography (CTA). Methods We have obtained CT images from a previously published study in which 131 cases underwent non-contrast CAC and contrast enhanced CCTA at research institute. The cases consisted of 52.4% women with ages 55.0 ± 10.1 years. The cardiac chambers volume in 131 cases of contrast enhanced CCTA were measured using automated chamber volumetry by Philips Brilliance Volume v 4.5; Philips Healthcare. Results The correlations between Philips’ automated chamber volumetry in contrast enhanced CCTA scans versus AutoChamber automated volumetry in non-contrast CAC scans for left atrium (LA), left ventricle (LV), right atrium (RA), right ventricle (RV), and left ventricular wall (LVW) volume were 0.73, 0.65, 0.85, 0.93, 0.90, respectively (P for all <0.01). Conclusion AI-enabled AutoChamber volumetry based on non-contrast cardiac scans is feasible, and correlates reasonably well with contrast-enhanced cardiac CT scans. Further studies are warranted to reproduce these results and explore the add-on value of AutoChamber to CAC scans.

Insights into retroperitoneal hemorrhage management: result from a tertiary cardiovascular center prospective cohort

Abstract Background Although rare, retroperitoneal hemorrhage (RPH) during percutaneous cardiovascular interventions is still potentially fatal, poses a critical challenge, often necessitating swift and precise management strategies. Its management is still controversial, and available recommendations are mostly based on expert opinion, and not updated according to recent advancement in the field of interventional cardiology. Purpose To present the rate, clinical characteristics and modern management of patients complicating with RPH in a large tertiary cardiovascular center Method We collected prospectively all consecutive RPH events encountered in the catheterization laboratories of a large tertiary cardiovascular center during 2014-2022. Procedural data from all the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures performed in the same time period, were retrieved from electronic hospital records (EHR). Results Among 89,361 percutaneous cardiovascular diagnostic or therapeutic procedures performed on 69596 patients, 52 (0.058%) episodes (patients) of RPH, (mean age of 56.37±16.84 years with female sex predominance of 36 (69.23%)). Also 2 (3.8%) patients died due to RPH. Non-contrast abdominopelvic CT scan was the most common primary imaging modality for RPH diagnosis, followed by DSA angiography. Of note, 13 (25 %) of patients returned directly to catheterization laboratory for RPH evaluation. Thirty-one (59.6%) patients were ultimately treated conservatively and no patient treated surgically. Structural and peripheral procedures were more prone to RPH. Still a median time of 7.5 hours was needed for RPH diagnosis. Contralateral access was the dominant approach for treating RPH, and although balloon tamponade was used in 11 (52.4 %) patients, 17 (80.9 %) patients were treated ultimately with covered stents; deep femoral and internal iliac arteries were covered in 1 (5.9%) and 2 (11.8%) patients, respectively. Patients treated endovascularly for RPH had higher acute kidney injury and longer hospital stays. Further comprehensive analysis regarding the potential risk factors of RPH are pending. Conclusion Our preliminary analysis from a large tertiary cardiovascular center database, showed RPH is still rare, with acceptable mortality rate of 3.83%. Our data showed the necessity of more precise probability assessment tools to improve the diagnostic time.

Opportunistic screening of coronary artery calcification on non-gated conventional CT scans using artificial intelligence

Abstract Background Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) led to the development of automatic Coronary artery calcification (CAC) analysis based on chest CT scans. The objective of this study is to assess the impact of AI-based CAC evaluation on improving the allocation of add-on therapies and further evaluation. Methods We used a novel propriety AI software to estimate CAC from non-gated, non-contrast chest CT scans. Patients were categorized into groups: low CAC 0-99 Agatston unit (AU), moderate CAC 100-399AU, and high CAC ≥ 400 AU. Exclusion criteria included prior myocardial infarction, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), and life expectancy < 2 years. Patients classified as high CAC were invited to a dedicated clinic to perform a risk factor and clinical assessment, initiate appropriate medication, and refer to further testing as needed. For low-moderate CAC, referring physicians were informed of CAC status, encouraging guideline-based optimal preventive management. Results 1272 eligible patients between January 1th, 2023 to February 29th, 2024 were evaluated for inclusion. 641/1272 (50.3%) were excluded. Out of 631 enrolled patients, 84 (13%) patients were classified as high CAC, 163 (26%) as moderate and 348 (61%) as low CAC. At the dedicated clinic, appropriate low-density lipoprotein (LDL) goals were assigned and statins were initiated or dose adjusted where necessary. Twenty patients were referred to myocardial perfusion imaging, of which 2 were referred for invasive coronary angiography, one of them underwent PCI (Figure), and the other was referred for CABG. Conclusion This ongoing study indicates routine CAC quantification using AI software on chest CT scans can identify patients who may benefit from preventive cardiology services and lead them to appropriate cardiac treatment pathway. Further follow-up is required to assess its clinical impact.

PERFIL DOS RESULTADOS DE ESCORE DE CÁLCIO DE CORONÁRIAS EM UM SERVIÇO PRIVADO DE ARACAJU

INTRODUCTION: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are responsible for one third of all deaths worldwide, with immutable risk factors such as age and gender, but also mutable factors such as sedentary lifestyles, obesity, hypertension and alcohol consumption. Given this scenario, there is a need to stratify the risk of individuals. The Coronary Calcium Score (CCS) is a tool used in non-contrast CT scans to stratify cardiovascular risk by quantifying the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the coronary calcium score profile of patients at a private service in Aracaju/SE. METHODS: This is a quantitative, cross-sectional, documentary, descriptive and retrospective study, produced by evaluating tomography reports for calcium score, performed on outpatients, in a private service in Aracaju-SE, between January 1 and December 31, 2023. A total of 227 examination reports were obtained. The inclusion criteria were imaging reports from January to December 2023. Duplicate exams, exams of other areas of the body and exams outside the period listed for the research were excluded. RESULTS: Our sample consisted of 125 women and 102 men, with no difference in mean age between them, whose mean calcification was 215.46. Men had higher overall mean values for calcium score and calcification volume than women, as well as for the arterial territories (DA, CX and CD), with the exception of the TCE, for which there was no difference between the genders. CONCLUSION: These data reveal a higher proportion of women undergoing examinations compared to men. Although most of the individuals in the study did not have significant coronary calcification, it was observed that, among the cases of significant calcification, men were more affected than women.

Ruptured Complex Aortoiliac Aneurysm in an Elderly Patient With a Kidney Transplant Presenting With Sciatica.

Background: Common iliac artery aneurysms are uncommon, with an estimated incidence of less than 0.01% in adults and accounting for only 1% of all intra-abdominal aneurysms. While the risk of rupture is approximately 5%, it increases significantly to 29% once the aneurysm reaches 4 cm. Similarly to abdominal aortic aneurysms, common iliac artery aneurysms often develop silently, remaining asymptomatic in about 70% of cases. This report describes the treatment of a patient with a kidney transplant who underwent endovascular repair of a ruptured left common iliac artery aneurysm with a concomitant abdominal aortic aneurysm and a focal aneurysm of the right renal artery origin. Case Description: A 78-year-old male patient with a kidney transplant presented with left sciatica symptoms and was found to have a contained rupture of a 10 x 7 cm left common iliac artery aneurysm with a concomitant 8 cm abdominal aortic aneurysm and a focal 1.8 cm aneurysm of the right renal artery origin. He underwent an endovascular aneurysm repair with an Aorto-Uni-iliac stent graft and a concomitant right-to-left femoral-femoral bypass using 8 mm ringed PTFE graft and ligation of left external iliac artery to prevent retrograde flow into the left common iliac artery aneurysm. At 3-year follow-up, patient remains stable with a functioning kidney transplant and excluded aneurysms with no evidence of endoleak. Conclusion: This report describes the endovascular repair of a ruptured left common iliac artery aneurysm conducted under local anesthesia in a patient with a renal transplant and complex aneurysm anatomy. The calcification pattern observed on a non-contrast CT scan was effectively used for surgical planning, leading to a successful aneurysm repair while preserving kidney transplant function.

Comparative evaluation of hepatosteatosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus using non-contrast abdominal CT and laboratory findings

Aim: This study aims to underscore the significance of employing multiple parameters from non-contrast abdominal CT scans for the assessment of hepatosteatosis in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Methods: Non-enhanced Computed Tomography of the diabetic subjects were analyzed. Control subjects were selected from non-diabetic patients who had undergone abdominal tomography within the same period. The craniocaudal length of the liver and liver, spleen, pancreas densities, and epicardial adipose tissue were measured. Additionally, patient demographics and laboratory values were retrospectively obtained. Results: The craniocaudal length of the liver was significantly greater in the diabetes mellitus group compared to the control group (168.3 ± 17.2 mm vs 152.3 ± 14.8 mm, p < 0.001). Hepatosteatosis was observed in 22 individuals with diabetes mellitus, whereas only one participant in the control group had this condition (p < 0.001). The diabetes mellitus group exhibited significantly lower median liver density (p < 0.001), liver-spleen density ratio (p = 0.004), pancreatic head density (p = 0.001), and pancreatic body density (p = 0.013). Additionally, the average thickness of epicardial adipose tissue was markedly higher in the diabetes mellitus group compared to the control group (8.1 ± 1.9 mm vs 4.9 ± 1.1 mm, p < 0.001). Conclusions: These data indicate an association between hepatosteatosis and increased epicardial adipose tissue thickness, liver and pancreatic densities in individuals with diabetes mellitus. These findings suggest that non-contrast abdominal CT findings such as epicardial adipose tissue thickness and relevant laboratory tests may aid in evaluating metabolic disorders and fat accumulation in diabetic patients.

Segmentation-based quantitative measurements in renal CT imaging using deep learning

BackgroundRenal quantitative measurements are important descriptors for assessing kidney function. We developed a deep learning-based method for automated kidney measurements from computed tomography (CT) images.MethodsThe study datasets comprised potential kidney donors (n = 88), both contrast-enhanced (Dataset 1 CE) and noncontrast (Dataset 1 NC) CT scans, and test sets of contrast-enhanced cases (Test set 2, n = 18), cases from a photon-counting (PC)CT scanner reconstructed at 60 and 190 keV (Test set 3 PCCT, n = 15), and low-dose cases (Test set 4, n = 8), which were retrospectively analyzed to train, validate, and test two networks for kidney segmentation and subsequent measurements. Segmentation performance was evaluated using the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC). The quantitative measurements’ effectiveness was compared to manual annotations using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).ResultsThe contrast-enhanced and noncontrast models demonstrated excellent reliability in renal segmentation with DSC of 0.95 (Test set 1 CE), 0.94 (Test set 2), 0.92 (Test set 3 PCCT) and 0.94 (Test set 1 NC), 0.92 (Test set 3 PCCT), and 0.93 (Test set 4). Volume estimation was accurate with mean volume errors of 4%, 3%, 6% mL (contrast test sets) and 4%, 5%, 7% mL (noncontrast test sets). Renal axes measurements (length, width, and thickness) had ICC values greater than 0.90 (p < 0.001) for all test sets, supported by narrow 95% confidence intervals.ConclusionTwo deep learning networks were shown to derive quantitative measurements from contrast-enhanced and noncontrast renal CT imaging at the human performance level.Relevance statementDeep learning-based networks can automatically obtain renal clinical descriptors from both noncontrast and contrast-enhanced CT images. When healthy subjects comprise the training cohort, careful consideration is required during model adaptation, especially in scenarios involving unhealthy kidneys. This creates an opportunity for improved clinical decision-making without labor-intensive manual effort.Key PointsTrained 3D UNet models quantify renal measurements from contrast and noncontrast CT.The models performed interchangeably to the manual annotator and to each other.The models can provide expert-level, quantitative, accurate, and rapid renal measurements.Graphical

7029 Changes In Adrenal Gland Size Seen By Linear Assessment On Routine Abdominal CT During Critical Illness

Abstract Disclosure: D.R. Vangipuram: None. N. Bhagat: None. R. Borkar: None. N.T. Mazengia: None. S. Williams, MD: None. S.K. Majumdar: None. Introduction: During acute stress, the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is activated, ultimately releasing adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the pituitary gland, which stimulates cortisol synthesis and release from the adrenal gland. During this process, ACTH also increases adrenal blood flow which may result in noticeable changes in adrenal gland size on imaging. A previous study compared adrenal gland volume in patients with and without sepsis and concluded that adrenal gland volume was found to be nearly double in sepsis compared with patients without sepsis(1). Another study that evaluated adrenal gland size on MDCT, to provide normal values for volumetry and linear dimensions, found a concordance between volumetric and linear assessment (by cumulative width), though volumetry was more reproducible(2). Method: This is a retrospective study that included 50 adult patients (age 18 and over) who underwent a non-contrast or contrast CT scan of the abdomen within 5 years prior to admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with any critical illness, and then had another CT of the abdomen during the admission to the ICU. We measured the maximum width of the body (corpus) and that of the medial and lateral limbs of both the adrenal glands, perpendicular to the long axis, as seen on CT. The total (cumulative) width was calculated by adding the width of the corpus and both the limbs of each adrenal gland. The measurements were made by two different radiologists, who were blinded both to the before/after ICU admission CTs, and to each other’s measurements. Results: There was concordance in the measurements made by both the radiologists. We used the averages of both their measurements for analysis. The mean cumulative width of each adrenal gland, i.e., corpus+medial limb+lateral limb (in mm), was: Right adrenal before ICU admission 13.52 (± 3.20); during ICU admission 13.24 (± 3.13); p 0.444. Left adrenal before ICU admission 16.03 (± 3.18); during ICU admission 15.12 (± 3.47); p 0.021. Conclusion: There was a statistically significant decrease in the size of the left adrenal gland during critical illness, but no significant change in the right. Our findings do not suggest an increase in adrenal gland size during ICU admission.

Vertigo as Initial Symptom of Cerebellar Hemorrhage in Adult Woman : A Case Report

Vertigo, difficulty walking, and loss of balance/coordination are among the symptoms of stroke in 50% of stroke cases. Vertigo due to cerebrovascular disease is generally associated with other neurological signs such as cranial nerve abnormalities, hemiparesis, facial weakness, diplopia, hyperesthesia, and Horner's syndrome. A 42-year-old woman came to the emergency department with complaints of dizziness, nausea, and frequent vomiting for the previous 4 hours. The symptoms are also accompanied by a feeling of tingling on the left side of the face, and the left eyelid cannot open optimally. The patient has a history of uncontrolled hypertension. The HINTS test revealed central vertigo, and the patient also found dysdiadochokinesis, ataxia, and dysmethria. A non-contrast head CT scan showed ICH in the left cerebellum with a volume of 6.9 cc. Based on the results of these examinations, the patient was diagnosed with cerebellar hemorrhage. The blood supply to the brainstem, cerebellum, and inner ear comes from the vertebrobasilar vascular system. Blockage or rupture of blood vessels in one of the main branches of this system can cause symptoms of vertigo. Symptoms of vertebrobasilar stroke vary widely and depend on which of the three main circumferential branches is affected; posterior inferior cerebellar artery, anterior inferior cerebellar artery, or superior cerebellar artery. Vertigo in patients who have risk factors for stroke accompanied by other neurological symptoms should be considered for a thorough neurological examination to evaluate the possibility of cerebrovascular disease.

Machine learning based classification of spontaneous intracranial hemorrhages using radiomics features.

To assess the efficacy of radiomics features extracted from non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) scans in differentiating multiple etiologies of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). CT images and clinical data from 141 ICH patients from 2010 to 2022 were collected. The cohort comprised primary (n = 57), tumorous (n = 46), and vascular malformation-related ICH (n = 38). Radiomics features were extracted from the initial brain NCCT scans and identified potential features using mutual information. A hierarchical classification with AdaBoost classifiers was employed to classify the multiple etiologies of ICH. Age of the patient and ICH's location were examined alongside radiomics features. The accuracy, area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity were used to evaluate classification performance. The proposed method achieved an accuracy of 0.79. For identifying primary ICH, the model achieved a sensitivity of 0.86 and specificity of 0.87. Meanwhile, the sensitivity and specificity for identifying tumoral causes were 0.78 and 0.93, respectively. For vascular malformation, the model reached a sensitivity and specificity of 0.72 and 0.89, respectively. The AUCs for primary, tumorous, and vascular malformation were 0.86, 0.85, and 0.82, respectively. The findings further highlight the importance of texture-based variables in ICH classification. The age and location of the ICH can enhance the classification performance. The use of a machine learning model with radiomics features has the potential in classifying the three types of non-traumatic ICH. It may help the radiologist decide on an appropriate further examination plan to arrive at a correct diagnosis.

6637 A Rare Case of a Possible Non-functional (Clinically Silent Biochemically Negative) Adrenal Pheochromocytoma

Abstract Disclosure: V.K. Babu: None. M.T. Corwin: None. S.T. Olatunbosun: None. Introduction: Adrenal pheochromocytomas (pheo) are rare neuroendocrine tumors arising from the chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla. Their incidence is around 0.8 per 100,000 patient years. They are usually sporadic, with about 40% having a pre-existing familial genetic disease. About 3% of adrenal incidentalomas prove to be pheo. They have a heterogenous presentation and are diagnosed by measuring urinary and plasma fractionated metanephrines (met) and catecholamines (catecho). The diagnosis becomes challenging in patients presenting with small tumors and normal levels of biochemical metabolites, as in our patient. Clinical Case: A 32-year-old male with no significant past medical history was referred to us with a left adrenal incidentaloma of 1.2 cm x 1 cm with 23 Hounsfield units during a non-contrast CT scan performed for abdominal pain. He denied spells of headaches, excessive perspiration, palpitations, history of hypertension, hypokalemia, history of kidney stones, fractures, muscle weakness, easy bruisability, new abdominal striae, change in weight, steroid use, or family history of endocrine tumors. MRI with adrenal protocol 3 months later showed a 1.2 cm x 1.4 cm left adrenal nodule that was markedly hyperintense on T2-weighted and hypointense on T1-weighted images without microscopic fat, suspicious for a pheo. It also demonstrated peripheral enhancement with progressive central filling on the delayed images without washout. Plasma met and catecho were normal: normetanephrines (normet) (45.2 pg/mL), met (36.4 pg/mL), epinephrine (epi) (34 pg/mL), norepinephrine (norepi) (295 pg/mL) and dopamine (&amp;lt;30 pg/mL). Subsequent 24-hour urine testing revealed normal met (155 mcg/day, 154 mcg/day), and normal normet (248 mcg/day, 236 mcg/day) on two separate occasions, and normal epi (9 mcg/L), norepi (36 mcg/day), and dopamine (228 mcg/day). The patient was subsequently referred to Endocrine Surgery for evaluation. Conclusion: Our patient likely has a non-functional pheo. Another possibility is an adrenal hemangioma, which would show discontinuous peripheral nodular enhancement in addition to progressive central filling. Patients with pheo less than 2 cm may present with normal biochemical testing. The size of a pheo is usually proportional to the levels of its biochemical metabolites. This case is unique because patients with a similar sized pheo are expected to have 3 times higher levels of plasma met and catecho, even if still within normal limits. It is important to take tumor size into consideration when interpreting labs to determine its functional status. This may help in determining the need for a pre-operative alpha blockade prior to adrenal surgery. A definitive diagnosis of a pheo’s non-functional status can only be confirmed after histopathological examination of the tumor tissue. Presentation: 6/3/2024

A-102 Clinical Evaluation of Novel Markers in Brain Injury

Abstract Background Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant health concern affecting individuals of all ages, demanding precise diagnostic methodologies to guide effective clinical management. According to the 2010 definition, a TBI results from an external force causing an alteration in brain function or other evidence of brain pathology. Current diagnostic tools, i.e. CT scans and the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), are inefficient because they are time and labor intensive. The need for rapid diagnostic tools is underscored by the drawbacks of existing methods, such as CT scans, which are expensive, expose patients to large amounts of radiation, and lead to delayed treatment. Recent advances in TBI diagnosis involve novel biomarkers, such as Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) and Ubiquitin C-Terminal Hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1), which have shown promise in revolutionizing the assessment of head traumas. GFAP, a glial-specific protein, is elevated in circulation after a TBI, distinguishing it from multi-trauma patients without brain injuries. UCH-L1, found in neurons, is significantly elevated in TBI patients compared to uninjured controls. A 2021 study further supports the clinical effectiveness of these biomarkers, demonstrating their capacity to exclude CT-positive injury in acute TBI cases. The primary aim of this study is to explore the clinical utility of the Abbott Alinity TBI assay, specifically biomarkers GFAP and UCH-L1, in emergency department patients with a history of head trauma. Methods A retrospective study involving 238 emergency department patients with a history of head trauma and noncontrast CT scans was conducted using the Abbott Alinity TBI assay. Serum samples were collected, and biomarker values were established and compared to CT scan results. The study was comprised of 94 females and 144 males spanning various age groups. The GFAP and UCH-L1 cutoffs used were FDA approved, at 35.0 ng/L and 400.0 ng/L, respectively. If either marker was above the cutoff the patient ruled at risk for TBI. Results Results demonstrated the assay correctly identified all CT-positive cases (100% sensitivity), placing them in the rule-in group, while identifying 44 patients with a 0 chance of TBI. The negative predictive value for the TBI overall was 100% (95% CI: 91.96%-100%). The GFAP assay alone identified 30/31 positive CT scans, reporting a 98.77% (95% CI: 92.03%-99.82%) negative predictive value. The UCH-L1 assay reported 26/31 positive CT scans with a negative predictive value of 94.68% (95% CI: 88.71-97.58%). Analyzing the data revealed the TBI assay would have reduced CT scans by 18.5%. Conclusions The results of this study did show a potential reduction in the number of patients sent to CT making it a valuable tool for triaging patients presenting with head trauma; however, the complexity of neurological problems may lead to increased false positives, reducing assay specificity. Despite this limitation, this study concludes that the GFAP and UCH-L1 markers could be used to triage patients into CT rule-out and rule-in groups, thereby streamlining clinical management. In conclusion, this assay, incorporating GFAP and UCH-L1 biomarkers, presents as a promising diagnostic tool for emergency departments.

Whole aorta imaging shows increased risk for thoracic aortic aneurysms and dilatations in relatives of abdominal aortic aneurysm patients

ObjectiveFor relatives of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) patients, guidelines recommend abdominal imaging aimed at early detection and management of AAA, and do not include screening for thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA). We aimed to investigate if TAA occur in undiagnosed relatives of AAA patients without a known genetic susceptibility for aneurysms, similar to families with identified genetic susceptibilities for aneurysms like in Marfan and Loeys-Dietz syndrome, where both AAA and TAA occur. MethodsRelatives of AAA patients were invited for non-contrast whole aorta CT screening. Systematic measurements of the CT scans were used to detect aneurysms and dilatations. Classification into familial and non-familial was based on reported family histories. In addition, aneurysm gene panel testing of AAA index cases was used for the classification of high vs unknown genetic risk (high genetic risk: familial aneurysm or a (likely) pathogenic variant (P/LP) in an aneurysm gene; unknown genetic risk: no family history or P/LP). ResultsWhole aorta imaging of 301 relatives of 115 abdominal aortic aneurysm index-patients with non-contrast CT scans showed a 28-fold increase in thoracic aortic aneurysms in relatives (1.7%, p<0.001 versus the age adjusted population) and a high frequency of thoracic dilatations in 18% of the relatives. Thoracic aneurysms and dilatations in relatives occurred even when index patients were unaware of familial aneurysms. AAA was increased in the relatives compared to the age adjusted population (8%, p<0.001). ConclusionsAn increased risk for thoracic aneurysms and dilatations was detected by whole aorta imaging of relatives of AAA index patients, even when index patients were unaware of familial aneurysms.These results indicate -still unknown- shared genetic susceptibilities for thoracic and abdominal aneurysms. Therefore, imaging of the whole aorta of relatives of all abdominal aneurysm patients, will improve early detection of aortic aneurysms in relatives of all AAA patients.

Radiological Assessment of Pulmonary Vascular Changes and Gastrointestinal Changes in COVID-19 Patients Referred to a Tertiary Health Care Centre in Chennai, India: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has led to significant morbidity and mortality worldwide since its emergence in 2019. While primarily a respiratory illness, COVID-19 can also affect other organ systems, including the vascular and gastrointestinal systems. COVID-19 infection is linked to both venous and arterial thrombosis, with numerous studies indicating a heightened risk of pulmonary embolism (PE) among patients. Autopsies have revealed pulmonary vasculature thrombosis and bowel ischemia in COVID-19 cases. Aim: This prospective cross-sectional study aimed to assess radiological pulmonary vascular changes, specifically pulmonary embolism (PE), and gastrointestinal changes in COVID-19 patients referred to a tertiary healthcare center in Chennai, India. Methods: CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) and contrast-enhanced CT of the abdomen were conducted in 100 COVID-19 positive patients meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Evaluation of pulmonary vascular changes and bowel changes was performed by a radiologist with five years of experience. Subsequently, statistical analysis was carried out to determine the significance of the relationship between COVID-19 patients and the occurrence of pulmonary vascular and bowel changes. Results: In our study, 11 patients exhibited pulmonary thromboembolism, and 7 patients showed significant bowel changes. There is a positive correlation between the prevalence of PE in COVID-19 patients. PE was diagnosed at a mean of 11 days from the onset of the disease. Out of 24 patients with severe acute respiratory illness (SARI), 7 showed PE in CTPA. Additionally, out of 10 mechanically ventilated patients, 7 had PE in CTPA. Among the 7 patients with bowel changes, 4 had PE in CTPA, indicating a significant association with PE. The observed bowel changes were attributed to intravascular thrombosis. Conclusion: Based on our findings, individuals with COVID-19 often develop pulmonary emboli and bowel changes. Multivariate analyses revealed a connection between invasive mechanical ventilation and PE. Our results suggest that patients with severe clinical manifestations of COVID-19 may also have concurrent acute PE. Thus, for these patients, utilizing contrast-enhanced CT scans instead of standard non-contrast CT scans may aid in treatment decision-making.

Falciparum malaria with haemorrhagic stroke in a 26-year male patient: report of a rare case

BackgroundMalaria continues to cause unacceptably high levels of disease and death despite increased global efforts and is still significant public health problem. African countries are disproportionately affected by malaria. The objective of this study was to describe a rare case of haemorrhagic stroke as a possible complication of malaria in a 26-year-old male patient.Case presentationA 26-year-old male from southwest Ethiopia presented with complaint of loss of consciousness (LOC) of 12 h duration. He had fever, headache, vomiting, chills, rigors and shivering three days prior to the loss of consciousness. On physical examination, pulse rate 116 beats/min, blood pressure of 120/90 mmHg, respiratory rate was 24 breaths/min, a temperature of 38.9◦C and oxygen saturation of 94%. Nervous system examination; stuporous with Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) 10/15(M5, E3, V2). Blood film and RDT confirmed a Plasmodium falciparum infection and a non-contrast CT scan found a right cerebral parenchymal haemorrhage.Discussion and conclusionThe presented case described a very rare case of a 26-year-old male patient who was diagnosed with left side hemiparesis secondary to a haemorrhagic stroke, associated with P. falciparum malaria. This report highlights the fact that malaria with stroke should be considered a differential diagnosis in a patient presenting with body weakness in a malaria endemic area and in individuals who had travel history to malaria endemic areas.

Emergency management of orbital compartment syndrome: Lateral canthotomy and cantholysis case series

BackgroundOrbital compartment syndrome (OCS) is considered a time critical condition that requires urgent surgical decompression to preserve vision. This study aims to evaluate the current clinical criteria for performing a lateral canthotomy and cantholysis (LCC) in the emergency management of suspected traumatic OCS. MethodsA retrospective audit of patients with suspected traumatic OCS presenting to an adult major trauma centre between January 1, 2017, and August 1, 2022, was performed. Results20 patients with traumatic OCS treated with a LCC were identified. Five patients satisfied the definitive clinical criteria for LCC. The remaining 15 patients received LCC based on secondary clinical findings, or computed tomography (CT) findings suggestive of OCS. 17 patients received non-contrast CT scanning prior to LCC. Of the nine patients noted to regain baseline or close to baseline vision, only one was decompressed within two hours of injury. ConclusionDespite OCS being a clinical diagnosis, the signs and symptoms associated with OCS are difficult to elicit on presentation. Seeking imaging should not delay time to decompression when clinical diagnostic criteria are present. However, imaging may have a role in determining the need for orbital decompression where the absolute indications for LCC cannot be adequately assessed.

Benefits of Brain Dual-Energy CT Imaging in Detecting Intracranial Hemorrhage in Non-Contrast Brain CT Scans

Benefits of Brain Dual-Energy CT Imaging in Detecting Intracranial Hemorrhage in Non-Contrast Brain CT Scans

Utilizing Un-enhanced Chest Computed Tomography Screening for Blunt Trauma Surgery Decisions.

Background Blunt chest trauma is a common and potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt assessment for potential surgical intervention. Computed tomography (CT) of the chest has emerged as a valuable tool due to its heightened sensitivity and specificity in detecting thoracic injuries compared to conventional chest radiography. Objective This study aims to assess the impact of non-contrast CT chest findings on surgical decision-making and compare these findings with those from chest radiographs. Methods The study was conducted at the Accident and Emergency Department of Medical Teaching Institute, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Patients of all ages and genders who presented with blunt chest trauma were included. Non-contrast CT chest scans were used as an initial screening tool and compared with traditional chest radiographs. Data collected included patient demographics, mechanism of injury, diagnostic findings, and treatment decisions. Imaging was performed using a GE Optima 16-slice scanner (Medsystems Sp. z o.o., Lublin, Poland). Results The study included 246 patients, of whom 210 (85.4%) were males. The most common age group was 50 years or older, comprising 71 (28.9%) of the sample. The predominant mechanism of trauma was road traffic accidents, reported by 188 (76.4%) patients. Hemopneumothorax was detected in 121 (49.2%) patients on CT scans compared to 34 (13.8%) patients on chest radiographs. On chest radiograph, the pneumothorax component was missed in 43 (17.5%) patients, and the hemothorax component was not detected in 21 (8.5%) patients. Patient management included conservative management in 30 (12.2%) cases and surgical intervention in the form of unilateral tube thoracostomy in 173 (70.3%) patients or bilateral tube thoracostomy in 43 (17.5%) patients. Conclusion Our study supports the use of non-contrast CT scans as a reliable diagnostic tool for blunt chest trauma, consistent with current literature. This approach facilitates prompt management decisions, particularly for initiating tube thoracostomy based on findings of pneumothorax and hemothorax. The rarity of mediastinal great vessel trauma further justifies minimizing routine contrast use, thereby enhancing the efficiency of trauma evaluations.