Washout Assessment Research Articles

99mTc-MIBI washout rate as a marker of myocardial mitochondrial dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: This review outlines the features of the pharmacokinetics of the perfusion radiopharmaceutical 99mTc-MIBI, which allows the assessment of myocardial mitochondrial dysfunction, and shows the main clinical applications of the phenomenon of increased 99mTc-MIBI washout rate. AIM: To systematize the data of fundamental (experimental) and clinical studies evaluating and estimating mitochondrial dysfunction according to myocardial perfusion scintigraphy data and perform meta-analysis of clinical studies in this field. MATERIALS AND METHODS: PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and eLibrary databases were searched until mid-2023. The following keywords, their combinations, and Russian-language counterparts were used: mitochondrial dysfunction, 99mTc-MIBI, 99mTc-Tetrofosmin, myocardial perfusion scintigraphy, reverse redistribution, washout, and washout rate. In the meta-analysis, a random-effects model was used to calculate the mean difference estimate. RESULTS: Forty articles were selected for systematic analysis: 13 were experimental, 24 were original clinical papers, 2 were clinical cases, and 1 was a review. Six studies using a case–control design were selected for the meta-analyses. The total number of patients in the systematic review and meta-analysis were 551 and 196, respectively. In the analysis of the literature, the severity of the reverse redistribution phenomenon and 99mTc-MIBI washout rate correlated with mitochondrial and myocardial microstructure, left ventricular contractility and hemodynamics, natriuretic peptide levels, exercise tolerance, coronary atherosclerosis severity, myocardial oxidative metabolism, and risk of cardiovascular events. The meta-analysis showed that the washout rate was statistically significantly accelerated in individuals with cardiac pathologies, relative to controls (mean difference score, 9.5771 [95%]; confidence interval, 6.6001–12.5540; z=6.3053, p 0.0001). CONCLUSION: The assessment of mitochondrial function by 99mTc-MIBI washout evaluation may provide additional insights into the functional status of cardiac muscles.

Lymphatic Contrast-enhanced US to Improve the Diagnosis of Cervical Lymph Node Metastasis from Thyroid Cancer.

Background The presence of cervical lymph node (LN) metastases (LNMs) affects clinical staging and prognosis of thyroid cancer, but the role of conventional B-mode US is limited for preoperative diagnosis of LNMs. The diagnostic value of lymphatic contrast-enhanced US (LCEUS) in thyroid cancer is still being explored. Purpose To explore the diagnostic performance of LCEUS by means of thyroidal injection of contrast agent in comparison with US in detecting LNMs of suspected thyroid cancer. Materials and Methods In this single-center prospective study conducted from November 2020 to January 2021, consecutive participants with suspected thyroid cancer underwent B-mode US and LCEUS of cervical LNs before biopsy. LNMs were confirmed with fine-needle aspiration cytologic examination, thyroglobulin washout assessment, or histopathologic examination after surgery. The diagnostic performance of LCEUS for cervical LNs was compared with that of conventional B-mode US, and its association with LN size and location was evaluated. Results The final data set included 64 participants (mean age, 45 years ± 12 [SD]; 52 women) with 76 LNs. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of LCEUS for LNM were 97%, 90%, and 93%, respectively, whereas they were 81%, 80%, and 80%, respectively, for LNM at conventional B-mode US. Compared with US, LCEUS had better diagnostic accuracy for the LNs smaller than 1 cm (82% vs 95%; P = .03) and for central neck LNs (level VI) (83% vs 96%; P = .04). Conclusion Lymphatic contrast-enhanced US had better diagnostic performance than conventional B-mode US for detecting cervical LN metastases in suspected thyroid cancer before surgery, especially for LNs smaller than 1 cm and central neck LNs. © RSNA, 2023 See also the editorial by Grant and Kwon in this issue.

Deep Brain Stimulation in Early-Stage Parkinson's Disease: Patient Experience after 11 Years.

The deep brain stimulation (DBS) in early-stage Parkinson’s disease (PD) pilot trial began more than a decade ago and remains the only investigation of DBS in mildly symptomatic patients. Patients completed therapeutic washouts biannually for two years, outpatient assessments through five years, and a longitudinal washout assessment after 11 years. Here, the patient experience of participating in the early DBS pilot trial is described. Semi-structured interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Transcripts were coded, analyzed using an iterative inductive-deductive approach, and used to develop a conceptual framework. Ten participants (n = 6 early optimal drug therapy (ODT), n = 4 early DBS + ODT) were interviewed. Motivations for participation included benefit to future PD patients and potential personal benefit, while hesitations included risk of surgical complications. While early ODT patients who received standard-of-care DBS described significant changes in their functional capacities after surgery, early DBS patients described a maintenance of quality of life that made PD less impactful over an extended period. Patients expressed high satisfaction with trial participation and early DBS. This study suggests that the PD experience with early DBS may notably differ from standard-of-care DBS. The FDA has approved the conduct of a pivotal clinical trial evaluating DBS in early-stage PD (IDEG050016).

Virtual monoenergetic images from spectral detector computed tomography facilitate washout assessment in arterially hyper-enhancing liver lesions

ObjectivesTo investigate whether the increased soft tissue contrast of virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) obtained from a spectral detector computed tomography (SDCT) system improves washout assessment of arterially hyper-enhancing liver lesions.MethodsFifty-nine arterially hyper-enhancing lesions in 31 patients (age 65 ± 9 years, M/W 20/11) were included in this IRB-approved study. All patients underwent multi-phase SDCT for HCC screening. MRI, CEUS or biopsy within 3 months served as standard of reference to classify lesions as LiRADS 3 or 4/5. VMIs and conventional images (CIs) were reconstructed. Visual analysis was performed on 40, 60, and 80 kiloelectronvolt (keV) and CIs by 3 radiologists. Presence and visibility of washout were assessed; image quality and confidence of washout evaluation were evaluated on 5-point Likert scales. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), lesion-to-liver contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) (|HUlesion–HUliver|/SDliver) and washout (|HUlesion–HUliver|) were calculated. Statistical assessment was performed using ANOVA and Wilcoxon test.ResultsOn subjective lesion analysis, the highest level of diagnostic confidence and highest sensitivity for the detection of lesion washout were found for 40-keV VMIs (40 keV vs. CI, 81.3 vs. 71.3%). Image quality parameters were significantly better in low-kiloelectronvolt VMIs than in CIs (p < 0.05; e.g. SNRliver: 40 keV vs. CIs, 12.5 ± 4.1 vs. 5.6 ± 1.6). In LiRADS 4/5 lesions, CNR and quantitative washout values were significantly higher in 40-keV VMIs compared to CIs (p < 0.05; e.g. CNR and washout in 40 keV vs. CIs, 2.3 ± 1.6 vs. 0.8 ± 0.5 and 29.0 ± 19.1 vs. 12.9 ± 6.9 HU, respectively).ConclusionBy increasing lesion contrast, low-kiloelectronvolt VMIs obtained from SDCT improve washout assessment of hyper-enhancing liver lesions with respect to washout visibility and diagnostic confidence.Key Points• Low-kiloelectronvolt virtual monoenergetic images from spectral detector CT facilitate washout assessment in arterially hyper-enhancing liver lesions.• Image quality and quantitative washout parameters as well as subjective washout visibility and diagnostic confidence benefit from low-kiloelectronvolt virtual monoenergetic images.

Ambulatory Neuroproprioceptive Facilitation and Inhibition Physical Therapy Improves Clinical Outcomes in Multiple Sclerosis and Modulates Serum Level of Neuroactive Steroids: A Two-Arm Parallel-Group Exploratory Trial.

Background: Only few studies have monitored the potential of physical activity training and physical therapy to modulate the reaction of the endocrine system. In this study, the effect of neuroproprioceptive facilitation and inhibition physical therapy on clinical outcomes and neuroactive steroids production in people with multiple sclerosis was evaluated. Moreover, we were interested in the factors that influence the treatment effect. Methods: In total, 44 patients with multiple sclerosis were randomly divided into two groups. Each group underwent a different kind of two months ambulatory therapy (Motor program activating therapy and Vojta’s reflex locomotion). During the following two months, participants were asked to continue the autotherapy. Primary (serum level of cortisol, cortisone, 7α-OH-DHEA, 7β-OH-DHEA, 7-oxo-DHEA, DHEA) and secondary (balance, cognition and patient-reported outcomes) outcomes were examined three times (pre, post, and washout assessments). Results: In both groups, there is a decreasing trend of 7-oxo-DHEA concentration in post-assessment and 7β-OH-DHEA in washout versus pre-assessment. A higher impact on neuroactive steroids is visible after Vojta’s reflex locomotion. As for clinical outcomes, the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test and Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale significantly improved between post-assessment and washout assessment. The improvement was similar for both treatments. Conclusions: Neuroproprioceptive facilitation and inhibition improved the clinical outcomes and led to non-significant changes in neuroactive steroids. Trial registration (NCT04379193).

Computer-aided diagnosis program for classifying the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma on MR images following liver imaging reporting and data system (LI-RADS).

To develop and evaluate a computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) program for liver lesions on magnetic resonance (MR) images for classification of the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) following the liver imaging reporting and data system (LI-RADS). Liver MR images from 41 patients with hyperenhancing liver lesions categorized as LR 3, 4, and 5 were evaluated by two radiologists. The major LI-RADS features of each index liver lesion were recorded, including size (maximum transverse diameter), presence of hyperenhancement, washout appearance, and capsule appearance. A CAD program was implemented to register MR images at different contrast-enhancement phases, segment liver lesions, extract lesion features, and classify lesions according to LI-RADS. The LI-RADS features quantified by CAD were compared with those assessed by radiologists using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and receiver operator curve (ROC) analyses. The LI-RADS categorization between CAD and radiologists was evaluated using the weighted Cohen's kappa coefficient. The mean and standard deviation of the lesion diameters were 21 ± 11 mm (range, 7-70 mm) by radiologists and 22 ± 11 mm (range, 8-72 mm) by CAD (ICC, 0.96-0.97). The area under the curve (AUC) for the washout assessment by CAD was 0.79-0.93 with sensitivity 0.69-0.82 and specificity 0.79-1. The AUC for the capsule assessment by CAD was 0.79-0.9 with sensitivity 0.75-0.9 and specificity 0.82-0.96. The classifications by the radiologists and CAD coincided in 76-83% lesions (k = 0.57-0.71), while the agreements between radiologists were in 78% lesions (k = 0.59). We developed a CAD program for liver lesions on MR images and showed a substantial agreement in the LI-RADS-based classification of the risk of HCCs between the CAD and radiologists. 1 Technical Efficacy: Stage 1 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:710-722.

Dynamic perfusion CT parameters and delayed contrast washout CT in characterization of adrenal tumors: A comparative study

PurposeThe study aims to compare the accuracy of washout and perfusion CT techniques in diagnosis of adrenal tumors. Patients and methodsA prospective study included 38 patients with incidentally detected adrenal masses on conventional abdominal CT studies performed for unrelated reasons were subjected to full medical history, physical examinations, serum creatinine assessment, dynamic perfusion CT using 64 MDCT scanner with Absolute washout (APW), Relative washout (RPW) assessment and CT perfusion parameters calculation [perfusion, Peak enhancement intensity (PEI), Time to peak (TTP) & Blood volume (BV)]. Time density curves (TDCs) for all adrenal masses were done. The gold standard was either follow up or histopathological examination after fine needle biopsy or surgical resection. ResultsWashout CT differentiated between adenomas and non-adenomas using APW (≥55%) with sensitivity 73.3%, specificity 90% and accuracy 82.8%, and using RPW (≥36%) with sensitivity 53.3%, specificity 85% and accuracy 81.8%. Perfusion CT differentiated between adenomas and nonadenomas using BV (≥15ml/100g) with sensitivity 80%, specificity 75% and accuracy 77.1%. TDC curves of adenomas show slow-rise platform pattern. ConclusionPerfusion CT can distinguish between adrenal adenomas and non-adenomas using the BV, however washout CT was more accurate than perfusion CT in characterization of adrenal masses using the APW and RPW.

Adrenal incidentaloma in adults - management recommendations by the Polish Society of Endocrinology.

A wide use of imaging techniques results in more frequent diagnosis of adrenal incidenataloma. To analyse the current state of knowledge on adrenal incidentaloma in adults in order to prepare practical management recommendations. Following a discussion, the Polish Society of Endocrinology expert working group have analysed the available data and summarised the analysis results in the form of recommendations. Unenhanced adrenal computed tomography (CT) may be recommended as an initial assessment examination helpful in the differentiation between adenomas and "non-adenomatous" lesions. In the case of density > 10 Hounsfield units, CT with contrast medium washout assessment or MRI are recommended. However, in all patients with adrenal incidentaloma, hormonal assessment is recommended in order to exclude pheochromocytoma and hypercortisolism, notwithstanding the clinical picture or concomitant diseases. In addition, examination to exclude primary hyperaldosteronism is suggested in patients with diagnosed hypertension or hypokalaemia. Surgical treatment should be recommended in patients with adrenal incidentaloma, where imaging examinations suggest a malignant lesion (oncological indication) or with confirmed hormonal activity (endocrinological indication). The basis of the surgical treatment is laparoscopic adrenalectomy. Patients with suspected pheochromocytoma must be pharmacologically prepared prior to surgery. In patients not qualified for surgery, control examinations (imaging and laboratory tests) should be established individually, taking into consideration such features as the size, image, and growth dynamics of the tumour, clinical symptoms, hormonal tests results, and concomitant diseases.

Adrenal Masses

Adrenal masses are among the most common incidentally discovered lesions on cross-sectional imaging with estimated incidence of approximately 5%. In addition, adrenal lesions can also be detected as part of an endocrinology workup with suspicion of a functional adrenal mass. Regardless of the source of detection, it is crucial to differentiate a benign from a malignant process and furthermore utilize characteristic imaging appearance of different adrenal masses to facilitate diagnosis and guide management. There are numerous imaging protocols and postprocessing methods for evaluation of adrenal masses with high sensitivity and specificity with small differences between institutions. Currently, the most widely used imaging modality for evaluation of adrenal mass is computed tomography without and with contrast washout assessment. In this article, we review diagnostic approaches to adrenal masses using computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging techniques and present imaging strategies utilized at our institution. The advantages and challenges of these imaging modalities for evaluation of adrenal pathologies are discussed.

Arthroscopic removal of a plastic soft drink bottle cap in the knee: a case report

We report a rare case of late knee locking after an open knee injury in a polytrauma patient with a pelvic fracture and a contralateral femoral artery injury. Once the life and limb threatening injuries were addressed, debridement and washout of the knee wound was performed. X-rays and subsequent CT revealed only an undisplaced patella fracture. The patient presented 6 months later to a knee surgeon with recurrent locking. An arthroscopy was performed and a 10 mm plastic soft drink bottle cap was retrieved leading to the immediate resolution of symptoms without complications.Open knee injuries require thorough debridement washout and joint assessment. Late locking should raise the suspicion of an intra-articular loose or foreign body. Arthroscopy is an excellent first line tool in the diagnosis and late management of this unusual problem.

Memantine and constraint‐induced aphasia therapy in chronic poststroke aphasia

We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of both memantine and constraint-induced aphasia therapy (CIAT) on chronic poststroke aphasia followed by an open-label extension phase. Patients were randomized to memantine (20 mg/day) or placebo alone during 16 weeks, followed by combined drug treatment with CIAT (weeks 16-18), drug treatment alone (weeks 18-20), and washout (weeks 20-24), and finally, an open-label extension phase of memantine (weeks 24-48). After baseline evaluations, clinical assessments were done at two end points (weeks 16 and 18), and at weeks 20, 24, and 48. Outcome measures were changes in the Western Aphasia Battery-Aphasia Quotient and the Communicative Activity Log. Twenty-eight patients were included, and 27 completed both treatment phases. The memantine group showed significantly better improvement on Western Aphasia Battery-Aphasia Quotient compared with the placebo group while the drug was taken (week 16, p = 0.002; week 18, p = 0.0001; week 20, p = 0.005) and at the washout assessment (p = 0.041). A significant increase in Communicative Activity Log was found in favor of memantine-CIAT relative to placebo-CIAT (week 18, p = 0.040). CIAT treatment led to significant improvement in both groups (p = 0.001), which was even greater under additional memantine treatment (p = 0.038). Beneficial effects of memantine were maintained in the long-term follow-up evaluation, and patients who switched to memantine from placebo experienced a benefit (p = 0.02). Both memantine and CIAT alone improved aphasia severity, but best outcomes were achieved combining memantine with CIAT. Beneficial effects of memantine and CIAT persisted on long-term follow-up.