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Kelion A, Sabharwal N, Holdsworth D, Dawkins S, Peschl H, Sykes A, Bashir Y. Clinical and economic impact of extracardiac lesions on coronary CT angiography. Heart 2022; 108:1461-1466. [DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2021-320698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveWhen reporting coronary CT angiography (CCTA), extracardiac structures are routinely assessed, usually on a wide field-of-view (FOV) reconstruction. We performed a retrospective observational cross-sectional study to investigate the impact of incidental extracardiac abnormalities on resource utilisation and treatment, and cost-effectiveness.MethodsAll patients undergoing CCTA at a single institution between January 2012 and March 2020 were identified. The indication for CCTA was chest pain or dyspnoea in >90%. Patients with ≥1 significant extracardiac findings were selected. Clinical follow-up, investigations and treatment were documented, and costs were calculated.Results4340 patients underwent CCTA; 717 extracardiac abnormalities were identified in 687 individuals (15.8%; age 62±12 years; male 336, 49%). The abnormality was already known in 162 (23.6%). Lung nodules and cysts were the most common abnormalities (296, 43.1%). Clinical and/or imaging follow-up was pursued in 292 patients (42.5%). Treatment was required by 14 patients (0.3% of the entire population), including lung resection for adenocarcinoma in six (0.1%). All but two abnormalities (both adenocarcinomas) were identifiable on the limited cardiac FOV. The cost of reporting (£20) and follow-up (£33) of extracardiac abnormalities was £53 per patient. The cost per discounted quality-adjusted life year was £23 930, increasing to £46 674 for reporting the wide FOV rather than the cardiac FOV alone.ConclusionsExtracardiac abnormalities are common on CCTA, but identification and follow-up are costly. The few requiring treatment are usually identifiable without review of the wide FOV. The way in which CCTAs are scrutinised for extracardiac abnormalities in a resource-limited healthcare system should be questioned.
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Laskowski D, Feger S, Bosserdt M, Zimmermann E, Mohamed M, Kendziora B, Rief M, Dreger H, Estrella M, Dewey M. Detection of relevant extracardiac findings on coronary computed tomography angiography vs. invasive coronary angiography. Eur Radiol 2021; 32:122-131. [PMID: 34129067 PMCID: PMC8660731 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-021-07967-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the detection of relevant extracardiac findings (ECFs) on coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) and invasive coronary angiography (ICA) and evaluate the potential clinical benefit of their detection. METHODS This is the prespecified subanalysis of ECFs in patients presenting with a clinical indication for ICA based on atypical angina and suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) included in the prospective single-center randomized controlled Coronary Artery Disease Management (CAD-Man) study. ECFs requiring immediate therapy and/or further workup including additional imaging were defined as clinically relevant. We evaluated the scope of ECFs in 329 patients and analyzed the potential clinical benefit of their detection. RESULTS ECFs were detected in 107 of 329 patients (32.5%; CTA: 101/167, 60.5%; ICA: 6/162, 3.7%; p < .001). Fifty-nine patients had clinically relevant ECFs (17.9%; CTA: 55/167, 32.9%; ICA: 4/162, 2.5%; p < .001). In the CTA group, ECFs potentially explained atypical chest pain in 13 of 101 patients with ECFs (12.9%). After initiation of therapy, chest pain improved in 4 (4.0%) and resolved in 7 patients (6.9%). Follow-up imaging was recommended in 33 (10.0%; CTA: 30/167, 18.0%; ICA: 3/162, 1.9%) and additional clinic consultation in 26 patients (7.9%; CTA: 25/167, 15.0%; ICA: 1/162, 0.6%). Malignancy was newly diagnosed in one patient (0.3%; CTA: 1/167, 0.6%; ICA: 0). CONCLUSIONS In this randomized study, CTA but not ICA detected clinically relevant ECFs that may point to possible other causes of chest pain in patients without CAD. Thus, CTA might preclude the need for ICA in those patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT Unique ID: 00844220 KEY POINTS: • CTA detects ten times more clinically relevant ECFs than ICA. • Actionable clinically relevant ECFs affect patient management and therapy and may thus improve chest pain. • Detection of ECFs explaining chest pain on CTA might preclude the need for performing ICA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Laskowski
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sarah Feger
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Bosserdt
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Elke Zimmermann
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mahmoud Mohamed
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Benjamin Kendziora
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Rief
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Henryk Dreger
- Department of Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Melanie Estrella
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marc Dewey
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany. .,Berlin Institute of Health and DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site, Berlin, Germany.
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Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia incidentally detected on coronary CT angiogram: a do-not-miss diagnosis. Emerg Radiol 2020; 27:721-726. [PMID: 32519293 PMCID: PMC7280472 DOI: 10.1007/s10140-020-01802-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Coronary CT angiograms are commonly performed for the evaluation of coronary artery disease and coronary arterial anatomy. However, extracardiac findings are frequently detected on these examinations and often can explain patients’ underlying symptoms, having a significant impact on patient management. Here in, we discuss three cases of incidentally detected novel COVID-19-infected pneumonia (NCIP). This case series highlights the image findings in NCIP and emphasizes the importance of evaluating all organs in the field of view on coronary CT angiograms. In addition, with the ongoing outbreak of COVID-19 and exponentially increasing incidence throughout the world, this report stresses the need for including NCIP in the differential diagnosis of patients with typical image findings in at-risk populations, as early diagnosis is crucial for appropriate patient management and post-exposure recommendations.
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Kay FU, Canan A, Abbara S. Common Incidental Findings on Cardiac CT: a Systematic Review. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR IMAGING REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s12410-019-9494-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Extracardiac findings on coronary computed tomography angiography in patients without significant coronary artery disease. Eur Radiol 2018; 29:1714-1723. [PMID: 30255246 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-018-5688-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyse extracardiac findings in patients without significant coronary artery disease (CAD) in general and in symptomatic patients in particular. METHODS We searched the Radiology Information System database for coronary computed tomography angiographies (CTA) performed from 2000-2014 and retrospectively enrolled 3,898 patients without significant CAD (coronary stenosis < 50%) in CTA. In 2,330 symptomatic patients, we analysed the spectrum of extracardiac findings and identified pathologies potentially explaining chest pain. Finally, we investigated variables affecting the number of extracardiac findings detected in CTA. RESULTS Overall extracardiac findings were found in 1,177 patients (30.2%; 95%CI, 28.8-31.7%). 94 patients (2.4%; 95%CI, 2.0-2.9%) had extracardiac findings with a recommendation for follow-up, sixteen patients (0.4%; 95%CI, 0.3-0.7%) had incidental urgent, and another three patients (0.1%; 95%CI, 0.1-0.2%) had incidental malignant extracardiac findings. 185 of 2,330 symptomatic patients (7.9%; 95%CI, 6.9-9.1%) revealed extracardiac findings potentially explaining chest pain after exclusion of significant CAD. The number of extracardiac findings increased significantly with patient age (p < 0.001) and the cumulative experience of the CT reader (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION 30.2% of patients undergoing CTA for exclusion of CAD had ECF, and 7.9% of symptomatic patients without significant CAD on their examination had findings that could potentially explain their symptoms. KEY POINTS • Of patients undergoing CTA, 2.8% have relevant incidental extracardiac findings. • CTA could identify the differential diagnosis of chest pain when excluding significant CAD. • Patient age and reader's professional experience influence the number of detected ECFs.
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Kalisz K, Halliburton S, Abbara S, Leipsic JA, Albrecht MH, Schoepf UJ, Rajiah P. Update on Cardiovascular Applications of Multienergy CT. Radiographics 2017; 37:1955-1974. [DOI: 10.1148/rg.2017170100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Secchi F, Di Leo G, Zanardo M, Alì M, Cannaò PM, Sardanelli F. Detection of incidental cardiac findings in noncardiac chest computed tomography. Medicine (Baltimore) 2017; 96:e7531. [PMID: 28723768 PMCID: PMC5521908 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000007531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to estimate the rate of incidental cardiac findings (ICF) in patients undergoing noncardiac chest CT.An experienced radiologist retrospectively reviewed 237 consecutive patients (147 males and 90 females with median age of 69 years) undergoing a noncardiac chest CT. ICF at targeted review were compared to those mentioned in original reports (χ test).At review, ≥1 ICF was detected in 124/237 patients (52%), for a total of 229 ICF, 158 of them (69%) not originally mentioned. Valvular calcifications were unmentioned in 23/23 (100%) patients, main pulmonary artery dilation in 21/22 (96%), coronary calcifications in 69/86 (80%), right or left atrial dilation in 7/11 (64%), aortic atherosclerosis in 29/62 (47%), and ascending aorta dilatation in 8/18 (44%). All 6 pericardial effusions were originally mentioned. No association with sex (P ≥ .189); positive correlation with age (P < .001).Half of patients undergoing noncardiac chest CT presented ≥1 ICF, independently from sex but increasing with age. Moreover, 69% of detectable ICFs were not originally mentioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Secchi
- Radiology Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Via Morandi 30, San Donato Milanese
| | - Giovanni Di Leo
- Radiology Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Via Morandi 30, San Donato Milanese
| | - Moreno Zanardo
- Integrative Biomedical Research, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Mangiagalli, Milan
| | - Marco Alì
- Integrative Biomedical Research, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Mangiagalli, Milan
| | - Paola Maria Cannaò
- Radiology Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Via Morandi 30, San Donato Milanese
| | - Francesco Sardanelli
- Radiology Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Via Morandi 30, San Donato Milanese
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Morandi 30, San Donato Milanese, Italy
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Mahdavi A, Mohammadzadeh A, Joodi G, Tabatabaei MR, Sheikholeslami F, Motevalli M. Diagnostic Accuracy of Dual-Source Computerized Tomography Coronary Angiography in Symptomatic Patients Presenting to a Referral Cardiovascular Center During Daily Clinical Practice. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY 2016; 13:e24350. [PMID: 27679698 PMCID: PMC5035936 DOI: 10.5812/iranjradiol.24350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2014] [Revised: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background There are numerous studies that address the diagnostic value of dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) as an alternative to conventional coronary angiography (CCA). However, the benefit of application of DSCT in a real world clinical setting should be evaluated. Objectives To determine the diagnostic accuracy of DSCT technique compared with CCA as the gold standard method in detection of coronary artery stenosis among symptomatic patients who are presented to a referral cardiovascular center during daily clinical practice. Patients and Methods Evaluating the medical records of a tertiary care referral cardiovascular center, 47 patients who had undergone DSCT and CCA, and also met the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the study were selected. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and likelihood ratios (LRs) of the DSCT imaging technique were calculated. Results In total, 97.8% of the segments (628/642) could be visualized with diagnostic image quality via DSCT coronary angiography. The mean heart rate during DSCT was 69.2 ± 12.2 bpm (range: 39 - 83 bpm), and the mean Agatston score was 507.7 ± 590.5 (range: 0 - 2328). Per segment analysis of the findings revealed that the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, positive LR (PLR) and negative LR (NLR) of DSCT technique for evaluation of patients with coronary artery disease were 93.7%, 96.8%, 92.7%, 97.2%, 29.4, and 0.066, respectively. Also per vessel, analysis of the findings showed a sensitivity of 97.1%, a specificity of 94.0%, PPV of 95.3%, NPV of 96.3%, PLR of 16.1, and NLR of 0.030. Conclusion Our results indicate that DSCT coronary angiography provides high diagnostic accuracy for the evaluation of CAD patients during daily routine practice of a referral cardiovascular setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Mahdavi
- Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Mohammadzadeh
- Rajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Golsa Joodi
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Farhad Sheikholeslami
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marzieh Motevalli
- Rajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Corresponding author: Marzieh Motevalli, Rajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Tel: +98-2122042026, Fax: +98-21-22042026, E-mail:
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Karkhanis S, Patil S, Hoey ET, Ganeshan A. The prevalence and significance of thoracic findings in patients undergoing extended coverage computed tomography for assessment of abdominal aortic aneurysms. Br J Radiol 2016; 89:20150723. [PMID: 26987373 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20150723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many major vascular centres, including ours, incorporate coverage of the thoracic aorta in CT scans evaluating abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) (extended coverage contrast-enhanced CT (EC-CECT) scan]. We sought to determine the prevalence of thoracic pathology in a large consecutive series of patients with AAA undergoing EC-CECT. METHODS All patients who underwent EC-CECT for AAA between April 2013 and 2014 were identified from our radiology information system. Reports were retrospectively reviewed and for each study, sex, age and reported thoracic aortic and other non-vascular findings were extracted. Findings were initially categorized into "major" or "minor" depending on if they were mentioned in the report impression/conclusion. Any major thoracic pathology was termed "significant" if there was a new diagnosis/patient intervention/investigation and a change in patient management. RESULTS Of the 150 scans included in the study, 97 (65%) had at least one thoracic finding. These findings included 24 scans (16%) with major findings and 73 scans (48%) with minor findings. In 13 scans (9%), the findings were significant and resulted in a delay (n = 11) or cancellation (n = 2) of AAA repair. CONCLUSION Pre-procedural EC-CECT helps to identify significant intrathoracic findings in patients with AAA, which can have a major impact on AAA repair. This study supports the routine use of pre-procedural EC-CECT in planning AAA repair. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE This study describes the prevalence of significant thoracic pathology, which can impact on AAA repair. This information could potentially change the pre-procedure imaging protocol for patients with AAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salil Karkhanis
- 1 Radiology Department, New Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Shahbaz Patil
- 1 Radiology Department, New Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Edward Td Hoey
- 2 Radiology Department, Birmingham Heartland Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Arul Ganeshan
- 2 Radiology Department, Birmingham Heartland Hospital, Birmingham, UK
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Sconfienza LM, Mauri G, Muzzupappa C, Poloni A, Bandirali M, Esseridou A, Tritella S, Secchi F, Di Leo G, Sardanelli F. Relevant incidental findings at abdominal multi-detector contrast-enhanced computed tomography: A collateral screening? World J Radiol 2015; 7:350-356. [PMID: 26516432 PMCID: PMC4620116 DOI: 10.4329/wjr.v7.i10.350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2015] [Revised: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate the prevalence of relevant incidental findings (RIFs) detected during routine abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CeCT).
METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated the reports of a consecutive series of abdominal CeCT studies performed between January and May 2013. For each report, patients’ age and sex, admission as inpatient or outpatient, clinical suspicion as indicated by the requesting physician, availability of a previous abdominal examination, and name of the reporting radiologist were recorded. Based on the clinical suspicion, the presence and features of any RIFs (if needing additional workup) was noted.
RESULTS: One thousand forty abdominal CeCT were performed in 949 patients (528 males, mean age 66 ± 14 years). No significant difference was found between inpatients and outpatients age and sex distribution (P > 0.472). RIFs were found in 195/1040 (18.8%) CeCT [inpatients = 108/470 (23.0%); outpatients = 87/570 (15.2%); P = 0.002]. RIFs were found in 30/440 (6.8%) CeCT with a previous exam and in 165/600 (27.5%) without a previous exam (P < 0.001). Radiologists’ distribution between inpatients or outpatients was significantly different (P < 0.001). RIFs prevalence increased with aging, except for a peak in 40-49 year group. Most involved organs were kidneys, gallbladder, and lungs.
CONCLUSION: A RIF is detected in 1/5 patients undergoing abdominal CeCT. Risk of overdiagnosis should be taken into account.
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Using coronary artery calcification combined with pretest clinical risk assessment as a means of determining investigation and treatment in patients presenting with chest pain in a rural setting. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:582590. [PMID: 25722981 PMCID: PMC4334625 DOI: 10.1155/2015/582590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Revised: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
462 patients presenting with chest pain to a rural district general hospital underwent calcium scoring and pretest clinical risk assessment in order to stratify subsequent investigations and treatment was retrospectively reviewed. The patients were followed up for two years and further investigations and outcomes recorded. Of the 206 patients with zero calcium score, 132 patients were immediately discharged from cardiac follow-up with no further investigation on the basis of their calcium score, low pretest risk of coronary artery disease, and no significant incidental findings. After further tests, 267 patients were discharged with no further cardiac therapy, 88 patients were discharged with additional medical therapy, and 19 patients underwent coronary artery by-pass grafting or percutaneous intervention. 164 patients with incidental findings on the chest CT (computed tomography) accompanying calcium scoring were reviewed, of which 88 patients underwent further tests and follow-up for noncardiac causes of chest pain. The correlations between all major risk factors and calcium scores were weak except for a combination of diabetes and hypertension in the male gender (P = 0.012), The use of calcium scoring and pretest risk appeared to reduce the number of unnecessary cardiac investigations in our patients: however, the calcium scoring test produced a high number of incidental findings on the associated CT scans.
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Karius P, Schuetz GM, Schlattmann P, Dewey M. Extracardiac findings on coronary CT angiography: A systematic review. J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2014; 8:174-82.e1-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2014.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2013] [Revised: 03/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Shin W, Choe YH, Kim SM, Song IY, Kim SS. Detection of cardiac myxomas with non-contrast chest CT. Acta Radiol 2014; 55:273-8. [PMID: 23926237 DOI: 10.1177/0284185113496561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiac myxomas are sources of systemic embolism. Currently a large volume of chest CT and calcium-scoring CT scans are performed without contrast injection. PURPOSE To evaluate the diagnostic capability of non-contrast CT covering heart in detecting cardiac myxomas. MATERIAL AND METHODS This retrospective study included 36 non-contrast CT scans of 36 consecutive patients (16 men, 20 women) who underwent CT scan before surgery for left atrial myxomas and 20 patients without myxoma as a control group. Two independent readers who were blinded to medical information reviewed non-contrast CT scans of 36 patients with cardiac myxomas and 20 scans in the control group patients. They determined the presence of lesions suspicious of myxomas using a five-point scale. The other reader measured attenuation number in the non-calcific areas of the tumors and sizes of the masses on the non-contrast CT images. RESULTS The average attenuation of cardiac myxoma (22.5 Hounsfield units [HU]; range, 8.9-32.9 HU) and adjacent unopacified blood (44.6 HU; range, 31.5-57 HU) were significantly different (P < 0.001). Twelve cardiac myxomas (31.6%) had internal calcification and all of them were detected by both of readers. Cardiac myxomas were measured smaller on non-contrast CT (mean, 3.5 cm; range, 1.1-9.7 cm) than on pathologic specimens (mean, 4.1 cm, 1.4-10.0 cm) (P < 0.001). Considering grade 3-5 on a five-grade scale as the detectability, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of non-contrast CT in detecting cardiac myxomas were 88.8%/86.1%, 95.0%/100%, 96.9%/100%, 82.6%/80.0%, and 91.1%/91.1%, by reader 1 and reader 2, respectively and there was good inter-observer reliability (kappa value = 0.92, P = 0.157). CONCLUSION Non-contrast CT scan is useful for detecting cardiac myxomas. Therefore, radiologists should be familiar with imaging findings of cardiac myxomas on non-contrast CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wonseon Shin
- Department of Radiology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiology, College of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-Si, Gangwon-Do, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon Hyeon Choe
- Department of Radiology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Mok Kim
- Department of Radiology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Young Song
- Department of Radiology, Konkuk University Medical Center, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sam Soo Kim
- Department of Radiology, College of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-Si, Gangwon-Do, Republic of Korea
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Malignant incidental extracardiac findings on cardiac CT: systematic review and meta-analysis. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2013; 201:555-64. [PMID: 23971446 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.12.10306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of our study was to systematically review the evidence on incidental extracardiac findings on cardiac CT with a focus on previously unknown malignancies. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic search was performed (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane databases) for studies reporting incidental extracardiac findings on cardiac CT. Among 1099 articles initially found, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. The references of those articles were hand-searched and 14 additional studies were identified. After review of the full text, 10 articles were excluded. Nineteen studies including 15,877 patients (64% male) were analyzed. A three-level analysis was performed to determine the prevalence of patients with incidental extracardiac findings, the prevalence of patients with major incidental extracardiac findings, and the prevalence of patients with a proven cancer. Heterogeneity was explored for multiple variables. Pooled prevalence and 95% CI were calculated. RESULTS The prevalence of both incidental extracardiac findings and major incidental extracardiac findings showed a high heterogeneity (I2>95%): The pooled prevalence was 44% (95% CI, 35-54%) and 16% (95% CI, 14-20%), respectively. No significant explanatory variables were found for using or not using contrast material, the size of the FOV, and study design (I2>85%). The pooled cancer prevalence for 10 studies including 5082 patients was 0.7% (95% CI, 0.5-1.0%), with an almost perfect homogeneity (I2<0.1%). Of 29 reported malignancies, 21 (72%) were lung cancers; three, thyroid cancers; two, breast cancers; two, liver cancers; and one, mediastinal lymphoma. CONCLUSION Although the prevalence of reported incidental extracardiac finding at cardiac CT was highly variable, a homogeneous prevalence of previously unknown malignancies was reported across the studies, for a pooled estimate of 0.7%; more than 70% of these previously unknown malignancies were lung cancers. Extracardiac findings on cardiac CT require careful evaluation and reporting.
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Makdissi J, Pawar RR, Radon M, Holmes SB. Incidental findings on MRI of the temporomandibular joint. Dentomaxillofac Radiol 2013; 42:20130175. [PMID: 24005059 DOI: 10.1259/dmfr.20130175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of incidental findings in MRI of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). METHODS MRI reports of 730 patients were assessed. The reports were analysed by one consultant and one clinical lecturer in dental and maxillofacial radiology. The prevalence of intracranial and extracranial incidental findings was recorded and categorized. RESULTS There were 53 (7.3%) incidental findings, of which 11 (1.5%) were intracranial and 42 (5.7%) were extracranial (divided into paranasal sinuses, mastoid air cells, muscle hypertrophy, lymphadenopathy and salivary glands). A total number of eight intracranial findings needed further dedicated imaging and/or specialist clinical opinion. Only one tumour (a meningioma) was found and required surgical intervention. CONCLUSIONS Incidental findings on TMJ MRI are rare but not unheard of. The clinical relevance of incidental findings can be significant, and it is therefore important to ensure that the full data set of images is inspected, including any scout slices. A close working relationship between the areas of dental and maxillofacial radiology and neuroradiology is essential in expediting a second opinion relating to intracranial findings. All incidental findings should be communicated to referring clinicians in a timely manner, based on their urgency and clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Makdissi
- Dental and Maxillofacial Radiology, Institute of Dentistry, Barts & The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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16
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Yang RY, Jaskolka JD, Tan KT, Roche-Nagle G. Prevalence and significance of extravascular incidental findings on computed tomographic angiography and magnetic resonance angiography. Vascular 2013; 21:355–62. [DOI: 10.1177/1708538112473973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Computed tomographic angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) are routinely used to evaluate patients with vascular disease. They have the ability to detect unexpected non-vascular pathology. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and significance of extravascular incidental findings in patients undergoing CTA or MRA. A retrospective review of 737 patients who underwent CTA and 184 patients who underwent MRA during a five-year period was performed. Incidental findings were classified as low, moderate or high significance findings. For patients with high significance extravascular findings, assessment of the rates of appropriate follow-up was conducted. Among the CTA patients, 539 (73.1%) had incidental findings. Low, moderate and high significance findings were discovered in 514 (69.7%), 95 (12.9%) and 41 (5.6%) patients, respectively. Twenty (48.8%) patients with high significance findings received appropriate follow-up investigations. Among the MRA patients, 95 (51.6%) had extravascular findings. Low, moderate and high significance findings were present in 80 (43.5%), 27 (14.7%), and 3 (1.6%) patients, respectively. Two (66.7%) patients with high significance findings were properly followed up. In conclusion, incidental findings on CTA and MRA are very common. A small percentage of these findings could be serious and were not all adequately followed-up in our study population. Referring physicians should be aware of the potential for serious incidental findings and manage them appropriately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Y Yang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Vascular & Interventional Radiology, Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Health Network and Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jeffrey D Jaskolka
- Division of Vascular & Interventional Radiology, Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Health Network and Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kong T Tan
- Division of Vascular & Interventional Radiology, Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University Health Network and Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Graham Roche-Nagle
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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17
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Buckens CF, Verkooijen HM, Gondrie MJ, Jairam P, Mali WP, van der Graaf Y. Unrequested findings on cardiac computed tomography: looking beyond the heart. PLoS One 2012; 7:e32184. [PMID: 22536315 PMCID: PMC3334960 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0032184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2011] [Accepted: 01/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To determine the prevalence of clinically relevant unrequested extra-cardiac imaging findings on cardiac Computed Tomography (CT) and explanatory factors thereof. Methods A systematic review of studies drawn from online electronic databases followed by meta-analysis with meta-regression was performed. The prevalence of clinically relevant unrequested findings and potentially explanatory variables were extracted (proportion of smokers, mean age of patients, use of full FOV, proportion of men, years since publication). Results Nineteen radiological studies comprising 12922 patients met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of clinically relevant unrequested findings was 13% (95% confidence interval 9–18, range: 3–39%). The large differences in prevalence observed were not explained by the predefined (potentially explanatory) variables. Conclusions Clinically relevant extra-cardiac findings are common in patients undergoing routine cardiac CT, and their prevalence differs substantially between studies. These differences may be due to unreported factors such as different definitions of clinical relevance and differences between populations. We present suggestions for basic reporting which may improve the interpretability and comparability of future research.
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18
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Alpert JB, Naidich DP. Imaging of Incidental Findings on Thoracic Computed Tomography. Radiol Clin North Am 2011; 49:267-89. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rcl.2010.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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