[Facial nerve protection in surgery for rare tumors of the internal auditory canal]

Objective:To explore strategies for preserving facial nerve function during surgeries for rare tumors of the internal auditory canal. Methods:A total of 235 cases of internal auditory canal tumors treated between 2010 and 2023 were included, encompassing vestibular schwannomas, cavernous hemangiomas, meningiomas, and other rare tumors. Various data, including clinical presentations, imaging classifications, and treatment processes, were meticulously analyzed to delineate the characteristics of rare tumors and assess pre-and postoperative facial nerve function. Results:Among all internal auditory canal tumors, vestibular schwannomas accounted for 91.9%. In rare tumors, facial nerve schwannomas constituted 5.3%, cavernous hemangiomas 26.3%, meningiomas 15.8%, and arterial aneurysms 10.5%. Significantly, patients with cavernous hemangiomas displayed pronounced invasion of the facial nerve by the tumor, in contrast to other tumor types where clear boundaries with the facial nerve were maintained. During surgery, individualized approaches and strategies for facial nerve protection were implemented for different tumor types, involving intraoperative dissection, tumor excision, and facial nerve reconstruction. Conclusion:Preservation of the facial nerve is crucial in the surgical management of rare tumors of the internal auditory canal. Accurate preoperative diagnosis, appropriate timing of surgery, selective surgical approaches, and meticulous intraoperative techniques can maximize the protection of facial nerve function. Personalized treatment plans and strategies for facial nerve functional reconstruction are anticipated to enhance surgical success rates, reduce the risk of postoperative facial nerve dysfunction, and ultimately improve the quality of life for patients.

Imaging features, clinical characteristics and neonatal outcomes of pregnancy luteoma: A case series and literature review

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to investigate the imaging features, clinical characteristics and neonatal outcomes of pregnancy luteoma.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed patients with pregnancy luteoma admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University between January 2003 and December 2022. We recorded their imaging features, clinical characteristics and neonatal outcomes. Additionally, we reviewed relevant studies in the field.

RESULTS

In total, 127 cases were identified, including eight from our hospital and 119 from the literature. Most patients (93/127, 73.23%) were of reproductive age, 20-40 years old, and 66% were parous. Maternal hirsutism or virilization (such as deepening voice, acne, facial hair growth and clitoromegaly) was observed in 29.92% (38/127), whereas 59.06% of patients (75/127) were asymptomatic. Abdominal pain was reported in 13 patients due to compression, torsion or combined ectopic pregnancy. The pregnancy luteomas, primarily discovered during the third trimester (79/106, 74.53%), varied in size ranging from 10 mm to 20 cm in diameter. Seventy-five cases were incidentally detected during cesarean section or postpartum tubal ligation, and 39 were identified through imaging or physical examination during pregnancy. Approximately 26.61% of patients had bilateral lesions. The majority of pregnancy luteomas were solid and well-defined (94/107, 87.85%), with 43.06% (31/72) displaying multiple solid and well-circumscribed nodules. Elevated serum androgen levels (reaching values between 1.24 and 1529 times greater than normal values for term gestation) were observed in patients with hirsutism or virilization, with a larger lesion diameter (P < 0.001) and a higher prevalence of bilateral lesions (P < 0.001). Among the female infants born to masculinized mothers, 68.18% (15/22) were virilized. Information of imaging features was complete in 22 cases. Ultrasonography revealed well-demarcated hypoechoic solid masses with rich blood supply in 12 of 19 cases (63.16%). Nine patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT), and six exhibited solid masses, including three with multi-nodular solid masses.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnancy luteomas mainly manifest as well-defined, hypoechoic and hypervascular solid masses. MRI and CT are superior to ultrasonography in displaying the imaging features of multiple nodules. Maternal masculinization and solid masses with multiple nodules on imaging may help diagnose this rare disease.

COVID-19-Associated Rhino-Orbito-Cerebral Mucormycosis: A Single Tertiary Care Center Experience of Imaging Findings With a Special Focus on Intracranial Manifestations and Pathways of Intracranial Spread

Background and objective The COVID-19 pandemic and mucormycosis epidemic in India made research on the radiological findings of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis imperative. This study aims to describe the imaging findings in COVID-19-associated mucormycosis, with a special focus on the intracranial manifestations.  Methodology Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of all patients with laboratory-proven mucormycosis and post-COVID-19 status, for two months, at an Indian Tertiary Care Referral Centre, were retrospectively reviewed, and descriptive statistical analysis was carried out. Results A total of 58 patients (47 men, 81%, and 11 women, 19%) were evaluated. Deranged blood glucose levels were observed in 47 (81%) cases. The intracranial invasion was detected in 31 (53.4%) patients. The most common finding in cases with intracranial invasion was pachymeningeal enhancement (28/31, 90.3%). This was followed by infarcts (17/31, 55%), cavernous sinus thrombosis (11/58, 18.9%), fungal abscesses (11/31, 35.4%), and intracranial hemorrhage (5/31, 16.1% cases). The perineural spread was observed in 21.6% (11/51) cases. Orbital findings included extraconal fat and muscle involvement, intraconal involvement, orbital apicitis, optic neuritis, panophthalmitis, and orbital abscess formation in decreasing order of frequency. Cohen's kappa coefficient of interrater reliability for optic nerve involvement and cavernous sinus thrombosis was 0.7. Cohen's coefficient for all other findings was 0.8-0.9. Conclusions COVID-19-associated rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis has a plethora of orbital and intracranial manifestations. MRI, with its superior soft-tissue resolution and high interrater reliability, as elucidated in this study, is the imaging modality of choice for expediting the initial diagnosis, accurately mapping out disease extent, and promptly identifying and scrupulously managing its complications.

Pseudomyxoma Peritonei: A Challenging Clinical Diagnosis. Case Report and Review of the Literature

Background

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a clinical entity of subtle onset abdominal pain, ascites, and distention associated with characteristic imaging. In most cases, laparoscopic exploration will give the definitive diagnosis and histopathologic verification. However, usually there are difficulties in the diagnosis of this disease.

Case Report

Herein, we present a case of a 51-year-old female who developed ascites over 5 months. An investigational laparotomy established the diagnosis of PMP, after the discovery of a mucinous, grey-brown tumor that was CK20 positive and CK7 negative. Subsequently, chemotherapy with oxaliplatin combined with 5-FU (FOLFOX4 regimen), was initiated and the patient survived for 30 months. We also present a comprehensive review of the English literature concerning the different symptoms and radiological findings of this rare entity. According to the literature review, 35 cases of PMP with different clinical and radiological findings have been described. In the majority of the cases, ultrasound, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging was orientating towards a proper diagnosis before a diagnostic laparotomy.

Conclusion

The combination of a clinical picture with the characteristic imaging findings enables a prompt diagnosis of PMP, making prognosis more favorable.

Natural History of Hepatic Hemangiomas Larger Than 10 cm: Imaging Findings and Clinical Course of 22 Cases

INTRODUCTION

The natural history of a large hepatic hemangioma is important in determining the treatment strategy. Although several studies have assessed the natural history of hepatic hemangiomas, no study has focused on hepatic hemangiomas measuring >10 cm. The aim of this study was to assess the natural history of hepatic hemangiomas measuring >10 cm by evaluating imaging findings and clinical course.

METHODS

Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reports at Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan, between January 2001 and March 2023 were retrospectively searched to find adult patients with hepatic hemangiomas >10 cm. Patients who were followed up without treatment for over six months were included. The maximum diameter of the hepatic hemangioma was compared between the baseline and the final CT or MRI. The clinical course of the patients was evaluated.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients (17 women, five men; median age, 51 years) were identified. The median diameter of hepatic hemangiomas in the baseline study was 114 mm. Two patients had abdominal distention at the time of the baseline imaging, whereas the others were asymptomatic. After follow-up without treatment (the median; 95.5 months), enlargement, no change, shrinkage of hepatic hemangioma was observed in six, 11, and five patients, respectively. The median growth rate of hepatic hemangiomas was 2.5 mm/year. Two patients underwent liver resection for hepatic hemangioma, while the others were followed up without treatment. In four patients, symptoms appeared or worsened. Two patients died: one patient died from prostate cancer progression; the cause of death for the other was not confirmed.

CONCLUSION

Hepatic hemangiomas show a slow growth rate during follow-up, and shrinkage is occasionally observed. Some patients experience new symptoms or aggravation of symptoms; however, deaths associated with hepatic hemangiomas are uncommon.

Primary hepatic squamous cell carcinoma: case report and systematic review of the literature

Primary hepatic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is extremely rare, and only a few dozen cases have been reported to date. It can barely be diagnosed before histopathological examination, which necessitates the exclusion of metastatic tumors. In this case, we present a 60-year-old female patient with no comorbidity. As laboratory tests and imaging examinations were not diagnostic, ultrasonography (US)-guided liver biopsy was performed and eventually revealed a definitive pathological diagnosis of hepatic SCC. After excluding metastasis, the diagnosis of primary hepatic SCC was established, and then chemotherapy and immunotherapy were performed. Additionally, a comprehensive literature search was conducted on primary hepatic SCC using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, and a total of 53 articles were retrieved with a time range from 1972 to 2022. A critical analysis was then performed to evaluate previous literature focusing on the clinical characteristics, imaging features, treatments, and prognosis.

Sinonasal and Orbital Imaging Findings in COVID-Associated Rhino-Orbito-Cerebral Mucormycosis During the Second Wave of COVID-19: A Retrospective Cohort Study in a Tertiary Hospital in Central India

Background Mucormycosis is a consequence of the angioinvasive disease caused by filamentous fungi that belong to the order Mucorales, particularly Mucor, Rhizopus, and Rhizomucor. Rhizopus oryzae is the most prevalent form. The invading hyphae lead to damage of blood vessels leading to thrombosis and consequent tissue necrosis. The incidence of this disease entity witnessed a significant rise during the second wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Timely diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial to diminish both the mortality and morbidity associated with this disease. Imaging plays a pivotal role in diagnosing the ailment, evaluating its extent, identifying complications such as thrombosis, and facilitating surgical planning. It demonstrates exceptional sensitivity in detecting the disease at its early stages, often before symptoms manifest. Due to the angioinvasive nature of Mucor, early detection assumes utmost importance as it necessitates intensive antifungal therapy and the removal of devitalized tissue through debridement. Methodology We conducted a retrospective cohort study to analyze computed tomography (CT) imaging findings in patients with COVID-associated rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) confirmed by histopathological examination. We compared these findings with CT findings of the nose and paranasal sinuses in patients without mucor following COVID-19 sinusitis (non-ROCM). Results All 16 cases in the non-ROCM group were in stage 1 disease. In contrast, in the ROCM group, three patients had stage 1 disease, five patients had stage 2 disease, and 10 patients had stage 3 disease (p = 0.0001). The pterygopalatine fossa was significantly affected in 10 of 18 ROCM patients and in none of the non-ROCM patients. Conclusions Imaging plays a crucial role in the early detection of mucormycosis. It assists treating physicians in initiating prompt and aggressive treatment, thereby improving the prognosis of this frequently fatal disease.

Imaging Features Following Breast Explant Surgery: A Pictorial Essay

Breast implants can be removed with breast explantation surgery (BES) for various reasons, including patient dissatisfaction, capsular contracture, implant infection or rupture, breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma, and a recently emerging phenomenon called breast implant illness. There is very limited data on the imaging appearance after BES. A retrospective chart review was performed for patients with BES findings on imaging reports for the period between October 2016 and October 2021. When assessing BES techniques, a key element is determining whether the implant's fibrous capsule requires removal. The second important question is if the patient requires an additional aesthetic procedure after BES. BES techniques include capsulotomy, and partial, total, or en bloc capsulectomy. Adjunctive aesthetic or reconstructive procedures after BES include fat grafting, mastopexy, augmentation, and reconstruction with flaps. The majority of post-BES breast imaging findings are related to the surgical scar/bed, thereby confirming that the type of explantation surgery is important. Imaging findings after BES include focal and global asymmetries, architectural distortions, calcifications, calcified and non-calcified fat necrosis, masses, hematomas, seromas, capsular calcifications, and silicone granulomas. Most importantly, since these patients have residual breast tissue, paying attention to imaging features that are suspicious for breast cancer is necessary.

Imaging findings of primary epithelioid sarcoma of adrenal gland: a case report and literature review

Epithelioid sarcoma (ES) is a rare soft tissue malignant tumor with an uncertain histogenetic origin. It usually arises in soft tissues of the extremities, while ES in adrenal gland is extremely rare. There is no special clinical manifestation in the early stage, so it may be misdiagnosed and delay the treatment. We reported a 69-year-old male with an adrenal ES. The tumor was completely resected, and two months later, positron emission tomography-computed tomography(PET/CT) noted recurrence at the tumor bed and multiple metastases. The patient has been treated with chemotherapy with good effects. We summarize the radiological findings and immunohistochemical indexes of primary epithelioid sarcoma of adrenal gland, which may be useful to promote disease awareness and help to distinguish among other lesions.

Adnexal Torsion of a Mature Cystic Ovarian Teratoma With Hemorrhagic Infarction Misdiagnosed As Pelvic Inflammatory Disease in a Perimenopausal Patient: A Case Report

Mature cystic teratomas are common benign ovarian tumors. They usually occur in young women, less than 40 years old. Our case report concerns a patient of perimenopausal age who came to the hospital complaining about mild abdominal pain, fever below 37.8°C, and diarrhea. The patient had an intrauterine contraceptive device inserted. Based on the clinical findings and imaging, a possible diagnosis of pelvic inflammatory disease was set, and intravenous administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics started immediately. The decision for performing laparotomy was taken after the fact that the clinical condition and blood tests of the patient had shown no improvement. Intraoperatively, the presence of a large twisted ovarian mass with signs of total necrosis due to adnexal torsion was detected. A histological examination of the surgical specimen confirmed the diagnosis of mature cystic teratoma in the right ovary. The postoperative course was uneventful. The presentation of the case follows a brief literature review of this rare medical condition regarding the diagnostic and therapeutic approach of these patients.

Imaging findings, clinical and pathological characters of 28 patients with Xp11.2/TFE3 translocation renal cell carcinoma

Purpose

To analyze the imaging characteristics of Xp11.2/TFE3 translocation renal cell carcinoma and explore the relationship between the pathological features and imaging findings.

Materials and Methods

Imaging, pathological, and clinical data of 28 patients with Xp11.2 RCC were studied from August 2013 to November 2019. The imaging characteristics and morbidity of different group were also explored meanwhile.

Results

Patients ranged from 3 to 83 years old and the median age was 47 years. Bilateral renal tumors were detected in 1 patient and unilateral in the rest 27 patients. Out of 29 tumors, 13 were in the left kidneys and 16 in the right. Tumor size ranged from 2.2 cm × 2.5 cm to 20.0 cm × 9.7 cm. Tumors were cystic component/necrosis (29/29,100%), renal capsule breakage (16/29, 55%), capsule (18/29, 62%), calcification (15/29, 52%), fat (4/29, 14%), and metastasis (10/29, 34%). Tumors showed moderate enhancement during renal corticomedullary phase and delayed enhancement during nephrographic and excretory phase. The solid parts showed hypointense on T2WI. The imaging characteristics did not have significant correlation with the age, the incidence of adolescent and children group was higher than adult group.

Conclusion

Xp11.2 RCC is a well-defined mass with cystic component, the solid part of tumor showed hypointense on T2WI. Xp11.2 RCC showed moderate enhancement during the renal corticomedullary phase and delayed enhancement during the nephrographic phase and excretory phase. Xp11.2 RCC has a higher incidence in children.

Clinical and Laboratory Diagnosis of Legionella Pneumonia

Legionella pneumonia is a relatively rare but extremely progressive pulmonary infection with high mortality. Traditional cultural isolation remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of Legionella pneumonia. However, its harsh culture conditions, long turnaround time, and suboptimal sensitivity do not meet the clinical need for rapid and accurate diagnosis, especially for critically ill patients. So far, pathogenic detection techniques including serological assays, urinary antigen tests, and mass spectrometry, as well as nucleic acid amplification technique, have been developed, and each has its own advantages and limitations. This review summarizes the clinical characteristics and imaging findings of Legionella pneumonia, then discusses the advances, advantages, and limitations of the various pathogenetic detection techniques used for Legionella pneumonia diagnosis. The aim is to provide rapid and accurate guiding options for early identification and diagnosis of Legionella pneumonia in clinical practice, further easing healthcare burden.

VERTEBRAL GA-68 DOTATATE UPTAKE MIMICKING LUNG NEUROENDOCRINE TUMOR METASTASIS

A 57 years old woman was diagnosed with well-differentiated lung neuroendocrine tumor (NET) by laboratory assessment, computed tomography (CT), contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and bronchoscophy with transbroncial biopsy of nodular lung lesion located in the right lower lobe. Staging Ga-68 positron emission tomography-CT (PET-CT) showed two pathological uptake regions in the superior segment of the right lung lower lobe (SUVmax: 80.61) and 6th thoracic vertebral body (SUVmax: 3.70). Contrast-enhanced MRI findings suggested that vertebral lesion may be compatible with atypical hemangioma or osseous metastasis due to T1 isointensity, T2 hyperintensity and contrast-enhancement on the lesion. Therefore, characteristic imaging findings of hemangioma were seen on axial and sagittal or coronal sections of CT, respectively called as 'polka dot' and 'corduroy cloth'. Thus the mild vertebral Ga-68 DOTATATE uptake was accepted as false positive finding. Surgical intervention was decided. She underwent a right lung lobectomy. The last follow-up of the patient was done 2 years after the initial diagnosis. The follow-up Ga-68 DOTATATE PET-CT revealed no pathological increased uptake in the whole-body except the 6th vertebra showing similar uptake (SUVmax: 3.50) with the previous scan without size increase on CT. The patient was asymptomatic with normal serum chromogranin A level.

Effects of Virtual Reality Exercises versus Isokinetic Exercises in comparison with Conventional Exercises on the Imaging Findings and Inflammatory Biomarker Changes in Soccer Players with Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) is the most common musculoskeletal problem. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of advanced physiotherapeutic exercise programs on imaging findings and inflammatory biomarkers in soccer players with CNLBP. In total, 60 CNLBP participants were divided into virtual reality exercise (VRE; n = 20), isokinetic exercise (IKE; n = 20), and conventional exercise (n = 20) groups. Pain intensity, imaging findings (muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and muscle thickness), and changes in inflammatory biomarkers (CRP, TNF-α, IL-2, IL-4, and IL-6) were measured at baseline and after four weeks. After four weeks of intervention, there was a significant improvement (p = 0.001) in pain intensity for the VRE vs. IKE (0.7; CI 95% 0.38 to 1.07) and VRE vs. conventional (3.0 CI 95% 2.68 to 3.31) groups. The IKE group showed a greater number of significant changes in muscle CSA and muscle thickness than the other two groups (p < 0.001). Moreover, the VRE group showed significant improvement in inflammatory biomarker measures compared with the other two groups (p < 0.001). In CNLBP, virtual and isokinetic exercises had equal effects on reducing pain intensity. Isokinetic exercise is beneficial in increasing the muscle CSA and thickness, and virtual exercises are helpful for attenuating the inflammation process in soccer players with CNLBP.

Merkel cell carcinoma brain metastasis with radiological findings mimicking primary CNS lymphoma: illustrative case

BACKGROUND

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine tumor with a high likelihood of distant metastasis. Approximately 30 cases of MCC brain metastasis have been reported. The authors report a case of MCC brain metastasis with imaging findings mimicking primary central nervous system lymphoma.

OBSERVATIONS

A 69-year-old asymptomatic White female with a past medical history of rheumatoid arthritis and MCC of the right cheek with no known regional or distant spread presented with a right frontal lobe lesion discovered incidentally on a surveillance scan. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed a vividly enhancing homogeneous lesion with restricted diffusion on diffusion-weighted imaging and corresponding apparent diffusion coefficient maps. Imaging characteristics suggested a highly cellular mass consistent with primary central nervous system lymphoma; however, given the likelihood of metastasis, resection was recommended. An intraoperative frozen section suggested lymphoma. However, further examination revealed positive cytokeratin 20 staining for a tumor, and a final diagnosis of MCC brain metastasis was made.

LESSONS

Imaging characteristics of MCC brain metastasis can vary widely. A high level of suspicion should be maintained in a patient with a known history of MCC. Aggressive resection is recommended, regardless of appearance on scans or pathology of frozen sections, because MCC can mimic other intracranial pathologies.

Relationship Between CT Head Findings and Long-term Recovery in Children with Complicated Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE

Complicated mild traumatic brain injury (C-mTBI) refers to CT positive patients with clinically mild TBI. This study investigates the association between CT head findings at time of injury and recovery of paediatric patients with C-mTBI.

RESEARCH DESIGN

Retrospective survey and chart review.

METHODS

For paediatric patients with C-mTBI (N = 77), CT findings associated with corresponding degree and lengths of recovery from C-mTBI using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

There was a trend that the odds of incomplete recovery at the time of survey was higher for older children than for younger children (OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 0.98-1.32, p = 0.072). There was a trend that the odds of incomplete recovery (OR = 6.26, 95% CI = 0.97-40.57, p = 0.054) and longer duration for recovery (OR = 8.14, 95% CI = 0.78-84.46, p = 0.079) was higher for children with multiple haemorrhagic contusions than those with single haemorrhagic contusion. No other imaging patterns predicted degree or length of recovery with statistical significance (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Other than the presence of multiple haemorrhagic contusions, no other pattern of imaging abnormality in paediatric C-mTBI appears to be associated with degree or length of recovery. Further studies with larger cohorts are encouraged.

Impact of Concomitant Spinal Canal Stenosis on Clinical Presentation of Adult Onset Degenerative Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: A Study Combining Clinical and Imaging Spectrum

Aim Degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DSL) is one of the reasons behind adult-onset backache due to degenerative spinal pathology. Clinical manifestations of this can range from asymptomatic patients to widely variable clinical signs and symptoms. Spinal canal stenosis (SCS) is the most common associated degenerative condition in the MRI of DSL. Moreover, other associated degenerative conditions may contribute significantly towards the clinical presentation. We have tried to assess the impact of SCS on the clinical symptomatology and presentation of the DSL by correlating the clinical and imaging findings. Methods This single-center prospective observational study has analysed 48 patients who were symptomatic due to DSL. The data was collected over a period of 18 months from January 2015 to June 2016 by screening through the adult patients presenting at the orthopaedic or spinal clinics with features suggestive of degenerative lumbar spine disease. Particular inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed as a screening tool and selected patients underwent imaging investigations. Patients had lumbar spine radiographs, both standing and flexion-extension view, and MRI of the lumbar spine. The presenting clinical features were documented. Their clinical and neurological assessment was done thoroughly by two qualified clinicians independently. Results The study population included 29 female (60.5%) and 19 male (39.5%) patients. The mean age of the study population was 49.5 years (SD 9.2 years). As per the radiological diagnostic criteria, 28 patients (58.3%) had features of SCS together with DSL and the rest of the 20 patients (41.7%) had DSL without SCS. Axial back pain and claudication had a statistically significant association with imaging findings. Similarly, patients with associated canal stenosis had statistically significant sensory and motor deficits, altered deep tendon reflexes. Facet joint angle more than 45 degrees at the level of the slip had a higher incidence of indicative presenting symptoms. However, this was not statistically proven. Conclusion DSL is a heterogeneous condition with the simultaneous presence of different degenerative processes in the lumbar spine at various stages. Hence, clinical presentations are widely variable. The concomitant presence of SCS significantly influences the clinical symptomatology with correlation to the MRI findings. Therefore, a judicious weighing of the clinical and imaging findings is crucial for prudent management planning for cases of DSL.

Extramammary Paget's Disease in the Genital Area of a Male: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD) is an uncommon intraepithelial malignancy that is rarely found in the male. Currently, there is very little knowledge pertaining to EMPD imaging, particularly in cases that involve the scrotum. Here, a 67-year-old man with lichenification on his left scrotum confirmed to be EMPD was reviewed. Bloodwork did not return a positive result, but syphilis-specific antibodies were found. Conventional high-frequency ultrasound (US) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) imaging were utilized to determine the lesion size and blood perfusion. In the present case, the lesion's size and involvement were vividly depicted by CEUS, while results obtained by conventional US were grossly underestimated. Consequently, multimodal imaging assessment is likely to provide more accurate diagnoses for uncommon diseases, such as EMPD, and to aid in clinical decision-making.

MRCP Combined With CT Promotes the Differentiation of Benign and Malignant Distal Bile Duct Strictures

Objective

To determine whether contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) can promote the identification of malignant and benign distal biliary strictures (DBSs) compared to the use of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) alone and to identify imaging findings of malignant DBSs.

Materials and Methods

A total of 168 consecutive patients with confirmed DBSs were reviewed. MRCP alone and MRCP combined with CT images were blindly analyzed by two radiologists (e.g., stricture pattern, margins), and malignant or benign DBSs were identified based on surgical findings, endoscopy findings, or follow-up. The diagnostic accuracy of the two reviewers using MRCP alone and MRCP combined with CT were evaluated. MRCP and CT features of malignant and benign DBSs were compared using multiple logistic regression analysis to identify independent malignant risk factors.

Results

MRCP combined with CT examination could improve the diagnostic accuracy, which increased from 70.2% to 81.5% in Doctor A and from 85.1% to 89.3% in Doctor B. The multiple logistic regression model revealed that stricture length [odds ratio (OR) 1.070, P=0.016], angle of the DBS (OR 1.061, P<0.001), double duct sign (OR 4.312, P=0.003) and low density in the arterial phase (OR 0.319, P=0.018) were associated with malignant DBS. A scoring model incorporating these four factors was established; at a threshold value of 1.75, and the sensitivity and specificity for the detection of malignant DBSs were 73.5 and 85.9%, respectively.

Conclusions

Compared to the use of MRCP alone, MRCP combined with contrast-enhanced CT can improve the accuracy of DBS diagnosis. The scoring model accurately predicts malignant DBSs and helps make treatment decisions.

The value of KL-6 in the diagnosis and assessment of interstitial lung disease

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the value of Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6) in the diagnosis and activity assessment of interstitial lung disease (ILD).

METHODS

The data of 69 ILD patients admitted to our hospital from January 2018 to January 2020 were analyzed retrospectively, and they were included in the ILD group. In addition, 69 patients with connective tissue disease (CTD) admitted to our hospital during the same period were selected and included in the non-ILD (NILD) group. The lung function, pulmonary imaging scores, and KL-6 expression levels were compared between the two groups. The patients in the ILD group were divided into two subgroups: the inactive group and the active group. The pulmonary function, pulmonary imaging scores, and the KL-6 expression levels of the patients in the two subgroups were compared. The value of KL-6 in the diagnosis and the ILD activity evaluation were analyzed.

RESULTS

The FEV1, FVC, and DLCO levels in the LID group were lower than they were in the NLID group (P<0.05). The LUS and Warrick scores in the LID group were higher than they were in the NLID group (P<0.05). The FEV1, FVC, and DLCO levels in the active group were lower than they were in the inactive group (P<0.05). The LUS and Warrick scores in the active group were higher than they were in the NLID group (P<0.05). The patients' serum KL-6 levels in the ILD group were higher than they were in the NILD group (P<0.05), and the patients' serum KL-6 levels in the ILD group were higher than they were in the inactive group (P<0.05). The Youden's index of serum KL-6 for the diagnosis of ILD was 421.775 U/ml and the sensitivity and specificity of the serum KL-6 were 91.304% and 95.652%, respectively, showing a high diagnostic value (P<0.05). The Youden's index of the serum KL-6 levels for the evaluation of the ILD activity was den Lungen-6 (KL-, with a sensitivity of 60.976% and a specificity of 100%, showing a moderate evaluation value (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

KL-6 has a high value in the diagnosis of interstitial lung disease, and a moderate value in the assessment of interstitial lung disease activity.

A Systematic Review about Imaging and Histopathological Findings for Detecting and Evaluating Electroporation Based Treatments Response

BACKGROUND

Imaging methods and the most appropriate criteria to be used for detecting and evaluating response to oncological treatments depend on the pathology and anatomical site to be treated and on the treatment to be performed. This document provides a general overview of the main imaging and histopathological findings of electroporation-based treatments (Electrochemotherapy-ECT and Irreversible electroporation-IRE) compared to thermal approach, such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), in deep-seated cancers with a particular attention to pancreatic and liver cancer.

METHODS

Numerous electronic datasets were examined: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. The research covered the years from January 1990 to April 2021. All titles and abstracts were analyzed. The inclusion criteria were the following: studies that report imaging or histopathological findings after ablative thermal and not thermal loco-regional treatments (ECT, IRE, RFA) in deep-seated cancers including pancreatic and liver cancer and articles published in the English language. Exclusion criteria were unavailability of full text and congress abstracts or posters and different topic respect to inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

558 potentially relevant references through electronic searches were identified. A total of 38 articles met the inclusion criteria: 20 studies report imaging findings after RFA or ECT or IRE in pancreatic and liver cancer; 17 studies report histopathological findings after RFA or ECT or IRE; 1 study reports both imaging and histopathological findings after RFA or ECT or IRE.

CONCLUSIONS

Imaging features are related to the type of therapy administrated, to the timing of re-assessment post therapy and to the imaging technique being used to observe the effects. Histological findings after both ECT and IRE show that the treated area becomes necrotic and encapsulated in fibrous tissue, suggesting that the size of the treated lesion cannot be measured as an endpoint to detect response. Moreover, histology frequently reported signs of apoptosis and reduced vital tissue, implying that imaging criteria, which take into account the viability and not the size of the lesion, are more appropriate to evaluate response to treatment.

Synchronous Renal Cell Carcinoma and Hepatocellular Carcinoma

The coexistence of multiple synchronous primary malignancies is uncommon. The coexistence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is even rarer. We present a case of a 44-year-old male patient with a history of chronic hepatitis B and a right renal mass treated by radical nephrectomy. At the 2-month follow-up, a new lesion was detected in the left lobe of the liver. Postsurgery histologic evaluation with immunohistochemical study of both lesions confirmed the renal and hepatic lesions to be RCC and HCC, respectively.

Analysis of multiple organ damage and clinical immunological characteristics in systemic lupus erythematosus patients with hematologic involvement

Objective: To investigate clinical immunological characteristics and imaging findings of multiple organ damage of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with hematologic involvement. Methods: SLE patients diagnosed in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University from June 2015 to March 2019 were selected, including 93 SLE patients with hematologic involvement and 68 SLE patients without hematologic involvement. Immunological indicators such as autoantibodies, immunoglobulin G (IgG), complement 4 (C4) and imaging data of several organs were measured respectively. The results were statistically analyzed. Results: SLE patients with hematologic involvement were more likely to have autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) (20.43%, P<0.05). The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) of SLE patients with hematologic involvement was 75.82 (±35.33) mm/h, IgG was 28.84 (±6.00) g/L and C4 was 0.073 (±0.031) g/L (P< 0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) of IgG was the highest among the above indicators (P<0.01). The positive anti-RO-52 antibody (OR=15.926, P<0.05) was an independent risk factor for pulmonary inflammatory lesions in SLE patients with hematologic involvement. Conclusion: Compared with the control group, abnormal immunological indicators and multiple organs damage are more obvious. Positive anti-RO-52 antibody may play an important role in the pathogenesis of pulmonary inflammation in SLE patients.

A Comparative Study of Chest Computed Tomography Findings: 1030 Cases of Drug-Sensitive Tuberculosis versus 516 Cases of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis

Purpose

To investigate the CT features of drug-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis (DR-PTB) and the diagnostic value of CT in DR-PTB diagnosis to provide imaging evidence for the timely detection of drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Materials and Methods

A total of 1546 cases of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) with complete clinical data, chest CT images and defined drug sensitivity testing results were consecutively enrolled; 516 cases of DR-PTB were included in the drug-resistant group, and 1030 cases of drug-sensitive pulmonary tuberculosis (DS-PTB) were included in the drug-sensitivity group. Comparative analyses of clinical symptoms and imaging findings were conducted. Univariate and logistic regression analyses were performed, a regression equation model was developed, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed.

Results

In the univariate analysis, some features, including whole-lung involvement, multiple cavities, thick-walled cavities, collapsed lung, disseminated lesions along the bronchi, bronchiectasis, emphysema, atelectasis, calcification, proliferative lesions, encapsulated effusion, etc., were observed more frequently in the DR-PTB group than in the DS-PTB group, and the differences were statistically significant (p<0.05). Exudative lesions and pneumoconiosis were observed more frequently in the drug-sensitivity group than in the drug-resistant group (p<0.05). Logistic regression analysis indicated that whole-lung involvement, multiple cavities, thick-walled cavities, disseminated lesions along the bronchi, bronchiectasis, and emphysema were independent risk factors for DR-PTB, and exudative diseases were protective factors. The total prediction accuracy of the regression model was 80.6%, and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 82.6%.

Conclusion

Chest CT manifestations of DR-PTB had certain characteristics that significantly indicated the possibility of drug resistance in tuberculosis patients, specifically when multifarious imaging findings, including multiple cavities, thick-walled cavities, disseminated lesions along the bronchi, whole-lung involvement, etc., coexisted simultaneously. These results may provide imaging evidence for timely drug resistance detection in suspected drug-resistant cases and contribute to the early diagnosis of DR-PTB.

Klebsiella pneumoniae infection associated septic pulmonary embolism in an emergency department from east China

BACKGROUND

Septic pulmonary embolism (SPE) is attracting more attention as a special pulmonary sign in severe infection. We aimed to describe the clinical and imaging features of Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumonia)-associated SPE in the emergency department.

METHODS

Records of patients with primarily extrapulmonary infection of K. pneumoniae who were admitted to the emergency department between 2014 and 2019 were retrieved. The identifications of K. pneumoniaeassociated SPE were mainly dependent on the clinical manifestations, typical imaging findings, and presence of a primary source of K. pneumoniae infection.

RESULTS

A total of 33 cases were identified as SPE with extrapulmonary K. pneumoniae infection. The main clinical manifestations were a febrile/fragile state (100%), respiratory symptoms (18.2%), and digestive symptoms (33.3%). Eight patients (24.2%) developed septic shock, 2 (6.0%) experienced respiratory failure, and 2 (6.0%) complicated endophthalmitis. The major source of infection was liver abscess (n=26, 78.8%), followed by septicemia (n=8, 24.2%), intestinal infection (n=3, 9.1%), and ascites (n=1, 3.0%). The computed tomography (CT) features included the following: peripheral wedge-shaped opacity (n=12, 36.4%), a feeding vessel sign (n=3, 9.1%), multiple nodular lesions (n=5, 15.2%), multifocal lung ill-infiltrations (n=15, 45.5%), patchy ground-glass opacities (n=6, 18.2%), focal consolidations (n=9, 27.3%), lung abscesses (n=4, 12.1%), and pleural effusion (n=21, 63.6%). Re-examination of lung HRCT conducted in 7 patients demonstrated imaging improvement after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

K. pneumonia-SPE presented special clinical and imaging characteristics, which bear similarities to the signs of pneumonia, but was potentially catastrophic. Identifying SPE in septic conditions is crucial to improving clinical outcomes.

Clinical and Laboratory Diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2, the Virus Causing COVID-19

In December 2019, a novel beta (β) coronavirus eventually named SARS-CoV-2 emerged in Wuhan, Hubei province, China, causing an outbreak of severe and even fatal pneumonia in humans. The virus has spread very rapidly to many countries across the world, resulting in the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a pandemic on March 11, 2020. Clinically, the diagnosis of this unprecedented illness, called coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), becomes difficult because it shares many symptoms with other respiratory pathogens, including influenza and parainfluenza viruses. Therefore, laboratory diagnosis is crucial for the clinical management of patients and the implementation of disease control strategies to contain SARS-CoV-2 at clinical and population level. Here, we summarize the main clinical and imaging findings of COVID-19 patients and discuss the advances, features, advantages, and limitations of different laboratory methods used for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis.

Heerfordt-Waldenström syndrome, a rare presentation of sarcoidosis in a patient with old ocular toxoplasmosis

BACKGROUND

There are similarities between ophthalmic presentation of toxoplasmosis and sarcoidosis and there are some concerns of immunosuppressive treatments for sarcoidosis may lead to T. gondii reactivation. We report a rare case with acute sarcoidosis (Heerfordt-Waldenström syndrome) and past history of ocular toxoplasmosis from the North of Iran.

CASE PRESENTATION

The patient was a 36-year-old woman, with left painful eye and swollen parotid, right facial paresis, maculopapular rash in left eyebrow and erythema nodosa on both legs. Anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibody was positive and IgM was not detectable. Radiographic findings on chest revealed bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy. The initial treatment was sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim to prevent recurrence of retinal toxoplasmosis and corticosteroid and mycophenolate mofetil for sarcoidosis. The patient showed clinical and vision improvement without recurrences during three months follow-up.

DISCUSSION

Ophthalmological examinations and laboratory test to rule out toxoplasmosis could be considered in known cases of sarcoidosis particularly in ocular sarcoidosis status. To the best of our knowledge this is first report of co-morbidity of ocular toxoplasmosis / sarcoidosis from Iran and possibly the world.

Cancer-related genetic changes in multistep hepatocarcinogenesis and their correlation with imaging and histological findings

AIM

The landscape of cancer-related genetic aberrations in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has gradually become clear through recent next-generation sequencing studies. However, it remains unclear how genetic aberrations correlate with imaging and histological findings.

METHODS

Using 117 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens of primary liver tumors, we undertook targeted next-generation sequencing of 50 cancer-related genes and digital polymerase chain reaction of hTERT. After classifying tumors into several imaging groups by hierarchal clustering with the information from gadoxetic acid enhanced magnetic resonance imaging, contrast-enhanced computed tomography, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, and diffusion-weighted imaging magnetic resonance imaging, the correlation between genetic aberrations and imaging and histology were investigated.

RESULTS

Most frequent mutations were hTERT (61.5%), followed by TP53 (42.7%), RB1 (24.8%), and CTNNB1 (18.8%). Liver tumors were classified into six imaging groups/grades, and the prevalence of hTERT mutations tended to increase with the advancement of imaging/histological grades (P = 0.026 and 0.13, respectively), whereas no such tendency was evident for TP53 mutation (P = 0.78 and 1.00, respectively). Focusing on the mutations in each tumor, although the variant frequency (VF) of hTERT did not change (P = 0.36 and 0.14, respectively) in association with imaging/histological grades, TP53 VF increased significantly (P = 0.004 and <0.001, respectively). In multivariate analysis, stage III or IV (hazard ratio, 3.64; P = 0.003), TP53 VF ≥ 50% (hazard ratio, 3.79; P = 0.020) was extracted as an independent risk for recurrence in primary HCC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased prevalence of hTERT mutation and increased TP53 mutation VF are characteristic features of HCC progression, diagnosed with imaging/histological studies.

Cross-Sectional Abdominal Imaging Findings in Patients With COVID-19

Objective We aimed to review and analyze cross-sectional abdominal imaging findings in a cohort of 10 patients who had tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods This retrospective study conducted from April 1, 2020, to May 13, 2020, involved two institutions that comprised a central tertiary academic institution and multiple smaller community hospitals. We reviewed and examined cross-sectional imaging studies of patients who tested positive for COVID-19 either during the emergency room (ER) visit or hospital admission. Salient imaging findings and medical records were reviewed. Results A total of 10 COVID-19-positive patients (seven males and three females) of ages ranging from 21-75 years underwent cross-sectional abdominopelvic imaging. Nine of the 10 patients demonstrated typical lung base findings associated with COVID-19 on both CT and MRI. Twelve CT abdominopelvic examinations, one MRI abdomen, and one right upper quadrant ultrasound (RUQ US) were performed, with three patients undergoing two CT scans during the course of hospitalization. Gastric and bowel wall abnormalities were found on 25% (n=3/12) of abdominal CT scans. Acute interstitial pancreatitis and acute cholecystitis were both found on one CT exam. The remaining (n=7/12, 58%) CT studies demonstrated no acute intraabdominal pathology with incidental findings including fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and splenomegaly. Conclusion A spectrum of abdominal imaging findings ranging from colitis to pancreatitis may be correlated with COVID-19 infection, even though the majority of our patients with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms did not have identifiable GI pathology on imaging.

Clinical Features of Ocular Motility in Idiopathic Orbital Myositis

: Objective: To elucidate the clinical features of ocular motility and the risk factors for recurrence in idiopathic orbital myositis.

METHODS

The medical records of 31 patients diagnosed with idiopathic orbital inflammation between 2003 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were initially treated with corticosteroids. Treatment outcome and ocular motility were noted.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients (84%) had unilateral involvement and five patients (16%) were bilateral. Of the 31 patients, 22 patients (71%) showed ocular motility limitation. The mean grading scale of extraocular muscle (EOM) limitation was -1.65 ± 1.80. EOM limitation was found in the same direction of the most affected muscle in 14 patients (64%), while 8 patients (36%) showed duction limitation in the opposite direction. Nine patients (35%) suffered from recurrence. Recurrence was more likely to occur in patients with multiple muscle involvement (p < 0.001). The interval to relapse of symptoms after discontinuation of steroids was significantly shorter in patients with multiple recurrences compared to those with a single recurrence (1.8 ± 0.8 weeks versus 6.0 ± 1.4 weeks, p = 0.020).

CONCLUSIONS

Idiopathic orbital myositis showed variable degrees of ocular motility limitation, and limitation in the same direction of the action of the affected muscle was more frequent. Recurrent myositis was more likely to have multiple muscle involvement. Rapid relapse of symptoms after discontinuation of steroids was a significant indicator of multiple recurrences.

Lung Base Findings of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) on Abdominal CT in Patients With Predominant Gastrointestinal Symptoms

OBJECTIVE. This series of patients presented to the emergency department (ED) with abdominal pain, without the respiratory symptoms typical of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), and the abdominal radiologist was the first to suggest COVID-19 infection because of findings in the lung bases on CT of the abdomen. CONCLUSION. COVID-19 infection can present primarily with abdominal symptoms, and the abdominal radiologist must suggest the diagnosis when evaluating the lung bases for typical findings.

[Imaging Findings of Pulmonary Cryptococcosis]

Pulmonary cryptococcosis(PC)is a fungal infection that can be easily misdiagnosed due to its non-specific clinical features and imaging findings.This article reviews the imaging findings of PC,their relationships with pathology and immune status,and differential diagnosis of PC with other disease,so as to improve the clinical management of PC.

Comparisons Between Infectious and Autoimmune Encephalitis: Clinical Signs, Biochemistry, Blood Counts, and Imaging Findings

OBJECTIVE

Infectious encephalitis (IE) and autoimmune encephalitis (AE) are symptomatically similar in clinic, however essentially different in pathogenesis. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify specific features to distinguish the two types of encephalitis for early effective diagnosis and treatments through a comparative analysis.

METHODS

Fifty-nine IE patients and 36 AE patients were enrolled. The patients with IE were divided into viral encephalitis (VE) and bacterial encephalitis (BE) according to the pathogens in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Patients with AE were categorized by with or without neural autoantibodies (NAAb). We further divided patients with NAAb into those with neural cell-surface antibodies (NSAbs) or intracellular antibodies (Abs). Clinical features, laboratory data, and imaging findings were compared between AE, IE, and subgroups.

RESULTS

Memory deficits, involuntary movement, and seizures were relatively more commonly presenting symptoms in AE patients (p < 0.05). The positive rate of Pandy test was higher in IE patients (p = 0.007). Decreased leukocyte, erythrocyte, and platelet counts in blood were found in IE patients (p < 0.05). Lower serum calcium level was found in VE compared to BE (p = 0.027). Meanwhile, higher serum calcium level was found in patients with NSAbs compared with intracellular Abs (p = 0.034). However, higher levels of LDH in CSF were found in patients with intracellular Abs (p = 0.009). In magnetic resonance imaging, hippocampus lesions were more commonly present in patients with AE (p = 0.042). Compared with AE patients, more IE patients displayed the background electroencephalogram rhythm of slow-frequency delta (p = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

Involuntary movement and memory deficits were more specifically present in AE patients. CSF Pandy, blood routine test and hippocampus lesions detections were potential markers for distinguishing AE and IE. Further, CSF LDH, and serum calcium levels were potentially useful to distinguish subgroups of encephalitis.

Value of imaging findings in predicting post-operative recurrence of desmoid-type fibromatosis

Desmoid-type fibromatosis is a rare type of soft-tissue tumor originating from connective tissue of the fascia or aponeurosis, which exhibits aggressive growth, high likelihood of relapse and less frequent distant metastasis. The present study aimed to predict the recurrence rate and time by retrospectively analyzing the clinical data (sex, age and recurrence time), imaging findings [tumor location, maximum diameter, border, computed tomography (CT) enhancement ratio, magnetic resonance enhancement ratio and T2 signal ratio] and pathological features (Ki-67 and microscopic margin) in a total of 102 cases of pathologically confirmed desmoid-type fibromatosis. The risk ratio of each factor was calculated using the Cox proportional hazards regression model and the cumulative recurrence-free survival rate was determined using the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test. The cohort comprised of 73 females and 29 males, with mean age of 32.86±12.64 years (range, 6–78 years). The 1-year and 2-year recurrence rate was 31 and 54%, respectively. The median age at recurrence was 29 years. Univariate analysis indicated that sex, maximum tumor diameter, CT enhancement ratio and Ki-67 had a significant effect on the recurrence time. Furthermore, multivariate analysis revealed that sex, maximum tumor diameter, Ki-67 and T2 signal ratio were independently associated with the time of recurrence, and the risk ratios were 0.424, 1.100, 1.084 and 1.268, respectively. Therefore, in male patients with a larger maximum tumor diameter, positivity for Ki-67 and a higher T2 signal ratio, desmoid-type fibromatosis was more likely to recur after surgery.

Imaging findings of IgG4-related kidney disease without extrarenal organ involvement: A case report

RATIONALE

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a systemic chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect almost every organ. IgG4-RD includes IgG4-related kidney disease (IgG4-RKD), but lesions affecting the kidney alone or first are very rare, and a complete understanding is lacking. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings can show the typical characteristics of IgG4-RKD and provide information for accurate and rapid diagnosis.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We report a case of a 60-year-old woman who was admitted to our hospital for dizziness and instability while walking, her bilateral eyelids were also slightly swollen. She had no medical history.

DIAGNOSES

CT and MRI images of the patient revealed multiple local and diffuse patchy lesions in the bilateral renal parenchyma and mass-like tissue in the bilateral renal pelvis, accompanied by right hydronephrosis. A pathological examination of renal samples showed numerous lymphocyte and plasma cell infiltration. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated approximately 50% of the IgG-positive plasma cells to be IgG4+. The serum IgG level was obviously elevated, with both C3and C4 levels were reduced. The patient was diagnosed with IgG4-RKD.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient received corticosteroid therapy at another hospital.

OUTCOMES

The bilateral kidney lesions were smaller on follow-up CT images.

LESSONS

IgG4-RKD exhibits some characteristic imaging features. Despite the relatively low incidence of IgG4-RKD, it should be included in differential diagnoses when images show multiple lesions in kidneys with mild and delayed enhancement and hypointensity on T2WI in middle-aged to elderly patients.

Asymmetric Ductal Ectasia: An Often Overlooked Sign of Malignancy

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this article is to define the clinical significance of asymmetric ductal ectasia by a review of literature and to describe the imaging findings. CONCLUSION. Asymmetric ductal ectasia has a significant risk for malignancy and high-risk lesions. The findings on conventional imaging may be subtle and easily overlooked. Asymmetric ductal ectasia should be included in the search pattern during image interpretation. Tissue sampling is usually warranted. Ultrasound is critical in identifying ductal abnormalities to guide biopsy.

Prostatic stromal sarcoma: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE

prostatic stromal sarcoma is a very rare malignant tumor that accounts for <0.1% of prostate malignancy. PATIENT CONCERNS:: we reported a 49-year-old man presented with dysuria and hematuria, whose computed tomography examination showed an enlarged prostate gland with an irregular shape. DIAGNOSES:: the diagnosis was confirmed on the basis of imaging manifestations and histopathological findings which were proved as prostatic stromal sarcoma.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient underwent radical prostatectomy OUTCOMES:: his postoperative condition was good.

Cystic Duct Metastasis from Renal Cell Carcinoma

We herein report a 69-year-old man who underwent right nephrectomy 1 year previously to remove renal cell carcinoma (RCC). On our examinations, contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a tumor with intensive early enhancement near the cystic duct of the gallbladder. Endoscopic ultrasonography showed a low echoic mass in the cystic duct. We diagnosed the patient's condition as cystic duct metastasis from RCC and performed open cholecystectomy. Histopathology indicated a metastatic tumor of clear cell RCC in the cystic duct wall. In patients with a medical history of RCC, hypervascular lesions suggest the possibility of metastasis. Therefore, detailed imaging examinations should be performed.

Neurobrucellosis

PURPOSE

Neurobrucellosis (NB) is a rare complication of brucellosis. NB presents with avariety of clinical manifestations, and the symptoms are always atypical. Our aim was to analyze the demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, imaging findings, treatments and outcomes of patients with NB.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

We retrospectively reviewed the data from 17 patients with NB hospitalized at the Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital between 1 January 2005 and 31 October 2016.

RESULTS

The following symptoms were recorded: 10/17 (59%) patients had fever, and 9/17 (53%) patients had a disorder affecting urination and defecation. Involvement of the cranial nerves was documented in 12/17 (71%) patients. The positivity rates of the tests were as follows: serum standard tube agglutination (STA), 15/17 (88.2%); cerebrospinal fluid STA, 10/17 (59%). The radiologic findings were categorized into four types: normal, white matter changes, vascular insult and inflammatory changes. Patients were treated with different combinations of rifampicin, doxycycline, ceftriaxone sodium and sulphamethoxazole for a total of six months. Two (12%) patients deteriorated, and two (12%) patients were lost to follow-up. The remaining patients (76%) were cured, but sequelae occurred in six patients.

CONCLUSIONS

NB should be kept in mind in patients with autonomic dysfunction, especially disorders of urination and defecation. Hearing loss due to vestibulocochlear nerve injury seems to be typical for NB. The high incidence of sequelae may be related to a long disease course and the involvement of the central nervous system. Early detection, diagnosis and treatment could decrease mortality and sequelae.

Cardiac Hematological Malignancies: Typical Growth Patterns, Imaging Features, and Clinical Outcome

Cardiac hematological malignancies (CHMs) are rare entities and comprise lymphoma, leukemic infiltration, and extramedullary manifestation of multiple myeloma. The aim of this work is to summarize typical growth patterns, imaging features, and outcome parameters of CHM. Overall, 12 cases from 4 centers were reviewed retrospectively together with 604 cases from the literature. Cardiac hematological malignancies were mainly represented by B-cell lymphoma (70.0%). Other entities were rarer. Almost half of the patients showed involvement of multiple cardiac structures. Most commonly right atrium, right ventricle, pericardium, left atrium, and left ventricle were affected in decreased order of frequency. Cardiac hematological malignancies manifested with 3 growth patterns: intracaval masses, heart wall infiltration, and pericardial effusion. Several subtypes of CHM tended to present with different patterns. Clinical presentation is unspecific-frequent signs were dyspnea (54.6%), arrhythmias (30.5%), and thoracic pain (18.5%). Outcome of CHM is poor with mean survival of 283.6 days for leukemias, 260.1 days for T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), 217.9 days for B-cell NHL, and 155.5 days for multiple myeloma.

Magnetic resonance imaging findings of central nervous system in lysosomal storage diseases: A pictorial review

Lysosomal storage diseases (LSD) are a complex group of genetic disorders that are a result of inborn errors of metabolism. These errors result in a variety of metabolic dysfunction and build-up certain molecules within the tissues of the central nervous system (CNS). Although, they have discrete enzymatic deficiencies, symptomology and CNS imaging findings can overlap with each other, which can become challenging to radiologists. The purpose of this paper is to review the most common CNS imaging findings in LSD in order to familiarize the radiologist with their imaging findings and help narrow down the differential diagnosis.

Multimodal imaging findings of SAPHO syndrome with no skin lesions: A report of three cases and review of the literature

Synovitis, acne, palmoplantar pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis syndrome (SAPHO) is a rare syndrome that affects the skin, bones and joints. Diagnosis of SAPHO syndrome is established on clinical appearance and imaging features. The present case report described the imaging features of three cases of SAPHO with sternoclavicular joint arthritis but without skin manifestations using multiple imaging modalities, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and bone scintigraphy. The first case was a 52-year-old male who suffered from progressive sternoclavicular arthritis for 2 years. The second case was a 62-year-old female with arthritis in the larger joints for 5 years, particularly on the right thoracic area. The third case was a 44-year-old male who exhibited a slight bulge accompanied by pain in the upper anterior chest wall for 4 years. All of them lacked cutaneous lesions. CT demonstrated sclerosis and hyperostosis with subchondral erosions in the sternocostoclavicular joints. MRI revealed bone marrow edema that was slightly hypointense on T1-weighted imaging, and hyperintense on T2-weighted imaging. Typical 'bull head' signs were observed in bone scintigraphy images. The present case study demonstrated that SAPHO syndrome should be suspected in patients with multifocal osteitis or arthritis affecting the chest wall that lack skin manifestations. Multimodal imaging modalities in combination are helpful for SAPHO diagnosis.

Radiological features of metastases to the thyroid

BACKGROUND

Thyroid metastases (TM) are uncommon. Dependent on study design, the reported frequency of TM is in the range of 0.1-6% in different analyses. While clinical and histopathological features of TM were well described in the literature, radiological publications consist predominantly of isolated case reports or small series.

PURPOSE

To estimate the prevalence, clinical signs, and radiological appearances of TM.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From 1997 to 2013, a total of 8849 patients with various disorders of the thyroid gland were treated in our institution. In 33 patients TM were diagnosed. Ultrasound (US) images were available in all patients, computed tomography (CT) of the neck in 16 patients, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in nine patients.

RESULTS

Clinically, most patients (85%) presented with a painless neck mass. Primary tumors were renal cell carcinoma (79%), colorectal cancer (12%), lung cancer (3%), rhabdomyosarcoma (3%), and breast carcinoma (3%). On US, most lesions were irregular in shape with inhomogenous texture. On CT, all TM were hypodense. On T1-weighted images, most TM were inhomogenously iso-to-hyperintense in comparison to the normal thyroid tissue, and slightly hyperintense on T2-weighted images with an inhomogenous contrast enhancement.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of TM was 0.4%. Most of the TM originated from renal cell carcinoma. The identified radiological features of TM should be taken into consideration in the differential diagnosis of thyroid lesions.

Unsuspected colorectal carcinoma on routine abdominopelvic computed tomography

Colorectal carcinoma is a common lethal disease with signs and symptoms that may be nonspecific. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis with or without contrast is frequently performed for various general abdominal complaints, but unlike CT colonography, the large bowel may not be optimally prepared for evaluation. As such, careful and diligent assessment of the non-prepared colon in all CT images of the abdomen and pelvis is important, as it ensures that incidental colorectal malignancy is not missed, especially in older patients. This article gives an overview of multidetector CT imaging signs and subtle clues to aid in the diagnosis of colorectal carcinoma, as well as their pitfalls.

Intraoperative sonography during open partial nephrectomy for renal cell cancer: does it alter surgical management?

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) during open partial nephrectomy alters the surgical management for renal cell cancer (RCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred ninety-eight consecutive patients undergoing IOUS during open partial nephrectomy for RCC were selected for retrospective review of clinical and imaging data. Patient age and sex, the local extent of the primary lesion, and the presence of additional lesions were recorded. Ultrasound findings were compared with preoperative CT or MRI to determine whether the IOUS findings changed surgical management. Summary statistics were performed to assess what percentage of patients with additional IOUS findings had a change in their surgical management. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate 5-year overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS) rates for all patients. Patients were followed for 9-12 years to assess survival and measure recurrence rates.

RESULTS

Twenty-one of 198 patients (10.6%; 95% CI, 6.7-15.8%) had additional findings on IOUS not seen on preoperative imaging. As a result, surgery was modified in 15 of these 21 patients (71.4%; 95% CI, 47.8-88.7%). The 5-year OS rate was 81%, and the EFS rate was 76% for the whole group; most deaths were due to unrelated causes. There was no statistically significant difference in OS (p = 0.867) and EFS (p = 0.069) rates among patients who had a change of management because of additional lesions seen by IOUS.

CONCLUSION

IOUS performed during open partial nephrectomy for resection of RCC shows additional findings compared with preoperative cross-sectional imaging that may alter surgical management.

Imaging Features following Thermal Ablation of Lung Malignancies

Percutaneous image-guided thermal ablation is gaining attraction as an effective alternative to surgical resection for patients with primary and secondary malignancies of the lung. Currently, no standard follow-up imaging protocol has been established or uniformly accepted. The early identification of residual or recurrent tumor would in theory enable the practitioner to offer expeditious retreatment or alternative treatment. This review elaborates on the imaging findings following thermal ablation, both heat- and cold-based, of nonresectable pulmonary malignancies.

[Analysis of imaging findings in jaw bone islands]

OBJECTIVE

To provide reference data on frequency and distribution of bone islands (BIs) and investigate their relationship with age, gender, and localization.

METHODS

A population who received a pretreatment and at least one follow-up panoramic radiograph in the Department of Oral Radiology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, were selected for this retrospective study. A sample population of 29,556 patients (12,824 males and 16,732 females) with different dental complaints and ages ranging from 8 to 80 years (mean age: 23.95 years) were included.

RESULTS

In the radiographic evaluation, BIs appeared as localized, well-defined, non-expansile, radiopaque masses which were round, elliptic, or irregular in shape. Their sizes varied from a few millimeters to about 2 cm in diameter. A total of 598 radiopacities were detected, and 545 patients of 29,556 patients (1.84%) had BIs. Among subjects with multiple lesions, 49 patients had 2 BIs and 2 patients had 3 BIs. The BIs had immense mandibular predilection, with presentation primarily in the premolar/molar region. The condition appeared to have no tendencies based on sex.

CONCLUSION

Recognition of BIs variation is significant in dental examinations.

Case Series: Pericardial gossypibomas detected after cardiovascular surgery: Imaging findings

We present the chest radiograph, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of three pericardial gossypibomas, which are rarely reported and an exceptional complication of cardiovascular surgery. The diagnosis is usually possible with surgical history, high clinical suspicion, and awareness of variable imaging findings. Usage of sponges with radiopaque markers facilitates early detection by chest radiographs and CT. In case of radiolucent gossypibomas, specific MRI features help to differentiate this pathology from other masses and diffusion-weighted images can be used to distinguish it from an abscess.

Segmental arterial mediolysis

Segmental arterial mediolysis (SAM) is a nonatherosclerotic, noninflammatory arteriopathy, which is characterized by dissecting aneurysms resulting from lysis of the outer media of the arterial wall. The most common presentation is abdominal pain and hemorrhage in the elderly. Computed tomography (CT) and angiography imaging findings overlap with various vasculitides and include segmental changes of aneurysm and stenosis. A key distinguishing feature is the presence of dissections, the principle morphologic expression of SAM. Differentiation and exclusion of an inflammatory arteritis is crucial in appropriate management, as immunosuppressants generally used for treatment of vasculitis may be ineffective or even worsen the vasculopathy. Although the disease can be self-limiting without treatment or with conservative medical therapy, the acute process carries a 50% mortality rate and may necessitate urgent surgical and/or endovascular therapy. Prompt recognition and diagnosis are therefore of utmost importance in appropriate management of this rare entity.

Imaging findings of rhinocerebral mucormycosis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to describe common radiographic patterns that may be useful in predicting the diagnosis of rhinocerebral mucormycosis.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated the imaging and clinical data of four males and one female, 3 to 72 years old, with rhinocerebral mucormycosis.

RESULTS

All the patients presented with sinusitis and ophthalmological symptoms. Most of the patients (80%) had isointense lesions relative to brain in T1-weighted images. The signal intensity in T2-weighted images was more variable, with only one (20%) patient showing hyperintensity. A pattern of anatomic involvement affecting the nasal cavity, maxillary sinus, orbit, and ethmoid cells was consistently observed in all five patients (100%). Our series demonstrated a mortality rate of 60%.

CONCLUSION

Progressive and rapid involvement of the cavernous sinus, vascular structures and intracranial contents is the usual evolution of rhinocerebral mucormycosis. In the context of immunosupression, a pattern of nasal cavity, maxillary sinus, ethmoid cells, and orbit inflammatory lesions should prompt the diagnosis of mucormycosis. Multiplanar magnetic resonance imaging shows anatomic involvement, helping in surgery planning. However, the prognosis is grave despite radical surgery and antifungals.