Histoplasmosis in Israeli travelers

Histoplasmosis is a common endemic human mycoses acquired mostly in the Americas. We reviewed 23 cases of histoplasmosis in Israeli travelers; 22 had traveled to Central or South America and one to North America. Fourteen cases had been exposed to bat habitats and were symptomatic, presenting ≤ 3 months after their return. Asymptomatic patients (N = 9) were diagnosed during the evaluation of incidental radiological findings or because a travel partner had been suspected of Histoplasma infection, 16-120 months after their return. Serological testing was positive in 75% of symptomatic cases but only 22% of asymptomatic cases. Histoplasmosis should be considered in travelers returning from the Americas with respiratory or febrile illness within weeks of return, particularly if exposed to bat habitats. Travel history is essential in patients presenting with pulmonary nodules, even years after travel to endemic countries.

Extra-cardiac findings on coronary computed tomography scanning

BACKGROUND

Cardiac computed tomography scans include several extra-cardiac structures such as mediastinum, lung parenchyma and upper abdominal organs. A variety of abnormalities in those structures might be clinically important and in some cases might explain the patient's complaints.

OBJECTIVES

To analyze consecutive CCT examinations for the prevalence and clinical significance of extra-cardiac findings.

METHODS

Cardiac CT scans of 134 sequential patients (104 males, 30 females) aged 20-77 (mean 54 years) with suspected coronary artery disease were prospectively and independently reviewed by a consensus of two radiologists for the presence of lung, mediastinal, pleural, upper abdominal and skeletal abnormalities. CT scans with extra-cardiac abnormalities were divided into two groups: group A- defined as "clinically significant" or "potentially significant findings" - consisted of patients requiring further evaluation or follow-up, and group B - "clinically non-significant findings."

RESULTS

Extra-cardiac abnormalities were found in 103 of the 134 patients (76.8%). Group A abnormalities were found in 52/134 patients (39%), while group B abnormalities were seen in 85/134 (63%). The most common abnormalities in group A were non-calcified lung nodules (> 4 mm) noted in 17/134 patients (13%), followed by enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes (> 10 mm) in 14/134 (10%), diaphragmatic hernia (2 cm) in 12/134 (9%), moderate or severe degenerative spine disease in 12/134 (9%), and emphysema and aortic aneurysm in 6 patients each (4.5%). A malignant lung tumor was noted in one patient.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a high prevalence of non-cardiac abnormalities in patients undergoing CCT. Clinically significant or potentially significant findings can be expected in 40% of patients who undergo CCT, and these will require further evaluation and follow-up. The reporting radiologist should be experienced in chest imaging.

Cardiovascular calcifications after radiation therapy for Hodgkin lymphoma: computed tomography detection and clinical correlation

OBJECTIVE

To study cardiovascular calcifications, detected by computed tomography, in patients following mediastinal radiation for Hodgkin lymphoma, and correlate them with clinical findings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifteen patients, <or=55 years, with computed tomography detected cardiovascular calcifications after mediastinal radiotherapy for Hodgkin lymphoma were identified during a 10-year period. Calcifications were evaluated for site and extent and were correlated with clinical data including symptoms and signs of heart disease, angiographic and surgical findings.

RESULTS

Accelerated calcifications were detected in the coronary arteries (n=11), in the aorta (n=11), and in the aortic valve and the mitral apparatus (n=8). Calcifications were more extensive when radiation was given at a young age. Clinical evidence of cardiovascular disease included coronary events in three patients, valvular dysfunction in two, pericarditis in two and complete atrioventricular block in one. Seven patients had no cardiac symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Early cardiovascular calcifications can be radiation associated. Such calcifications may represent radiation-induced atherosclerosis and can be detected by computed tomography even in asymptomatic patients. The implication of our findings is that spiral computed tomography may serve as a non-invasive modality to detect accelerated cardiovascular calcifications in high-risk asymptomatic patients who survived Hodgkin lymphoma.

Experience with somatostatin receptor scintigraphy in the management of pulmonary carcinoid tumors

BACKGROUND

Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy has been used widely for the evaluation of neuroendocrine tumors in the gastrointestinal tract. Its use for detecting and staging thoracic carcinoids is only sporadically reported.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the possible roles of SRS in the management of proven or suspected pulmonary carcinoids.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of all patients undergoing SRS for known or suspected pulmonary carcinoids in a tertiary referral center during a 10 year period. During this period 89 patients underwent resection of pulmonary carcinoids and SRS was used for detection, staging or localization purposes in 8 of them (9%). Scans were labeled true positive, true negative, false positive, or false negative in comparison with histologic or follow-up results.

RESULTS

SRS was true positive in 6/6 lung locations; true positive in 2/8, true negative in 4/8 and false positive in 2/8 lymph node locations; and true positive in 1/8, true negative in 6/8 and false negative in 1/8 distant locations. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and accuracy were 90%, 83%, 83%, 91% and 87% respectively. The scans were strongly positive in the tumors and involved lymph nodes. SRS correctly localized an occult secreting pulmonary carcinoid. Granulomatous and reactive lymph nodes showed increased uptake. SRS was accurate in ruling out distant metastases.

CONCLUSIONS

SRS is effective for visualizing and localizing pulmonary carcinoids. It assists in the staging of these tumors by detecting lymph node involvement and confirming or ruling out distant metastases. Inflammatory areas in the lung or lymph nodes may be falsely positive.

Coronary Artery Calcium Measurement with Multi–Detector Row CT and Low Radiation Dose: Comparison between 55 and 165 mAs

PURPOSE

To prospectively compare the results of coronary artery calcium (CAC) measurements obtained with 55- and 165-mAs electrocardiographically gated multi-detector row computed tomography (CT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Institutional clinical study review board approval and written informed consent were obtained. Fifty-one consecutive subjects (mean age, 59 years +/- 10) were scanned consecutively by using 165 and 55 mAs. For each examination, the number of lesions, total calcium score (TCS) calculated with Agatston algorithm (130-HU threshold), and calcium mass (in milligrams) were measured. Noise was measured by averaging 1 standard deviation of the CT attenuation values in five consecutive transverse sections of the ascending aorta. Paired t test and Pearson correlation were used to compare measurements between the examinations.

RESULTS

By using 55 mAs, CAC was detected (TCS > 0) in all 33 subjects in whom CAC was initially detected with 165 mAs. The mean values of CAC measures with 165 and 55 mAs, respectively, were as follows: number of lesions, 6.2 +/- 9.6 and 6.1 +/- 9.4; TCS, 123 +/- 223 and 126 +/- 225; and calcium mass, 23.25 mg +/- 43 and 24.25 mg +/- 44 (P value was not significant for all parameters). Significant high correlation was found between the two methods for all measures (r > 0.90, P < .01). Similar results were obtained with analysis by coronary vessel. Image noise was 9.3 HU +/- 2.1 with 165 mAs and 14.7 HU +/- 3.9 with 55 mAs (P < .001), with a parallel decrease in the volume CT dose index from 12 to 4 mGy.

CONCLUSION

Radiation dose can be reduced (eg, 55 mAs) for CAC detection and measurement at multi-detector row CT and provides results comparable to those obtained with 165 mAs.

Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia: variety of radiologic findings

BACKGROUND

Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia is increasingly being recognized as a major cause of diffuse infiltrative lung disease. The differential diagnosis of non-infectious diseases that resemble pneumonia should include this entity. Understanding the radiologic features of this entity will help in defining the correct diagnosis, although lung biopsy is needed to provide histopathologic confirmation. Treatment with steroids achieves an excellent response.

OBJECTIVES

To present a variety of radiologic findings on high resolution computerized tomography in eight sequential patients with COP, together with clinical and pathologic correlation.

METHODS

Sequential HRCT examinations of eight patients (four males) aged 53-80 years (mean 65.5 years) with pathologcally proven COP were retrospectively analyzed by a consensus of two experienced chest radiologists for the existence and distribution of airspace consolidation, ground-glass opacities, nodular thickening along bronchovascular bundles and small (<1 cm) and large (>1 cm) nodules. The distribution of radiologic findings was classified as unilateral or bilateral, located in the upper, lower or middle lobe, and central or peripheral. Also recorded was the presence or absence of mediastinal lymphadenopathy and pleural effusion. Correlation with clinical symptoms was analyzed.

RESULTS

All eight patients had bilateral airspace consolidations. in two cases consolidations were limited to central fields, in four they were peripheral, and in the remaining two cases they were both central and peripheral. Small nodules were noted in six cases and large nodules in three. Ground-glass opacities were found ln four cases. All patients had enlarged lymph nodes (1-1.5 cm) in the mediastinum. Radiologic abnormalities resolved or improved after steroid treatment in all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

HRCT findings of bilateral multiple heterogenic lung infiltrates and nodules associated with mild mediastinal lymphadenopathy in a patient with non-specific clinical symptoms are suggestive of COP; in such cases lung biopsy is indicated. Radiologic resolution of abnormalities correlates well with clinical improvement under adequate steroid treatment.

Visibility of normal thoracic anatomic landmarks on storage phosphor digital radiography versus conventional radiography

BACKGROUND

Chest radiography is still the most frequently performed radiologic imaging study. Digital radiography is gradually replacing the conventional systems.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the subjective visibility of normal anatomic landmarks in the chest on storage phosphor-based digital radiographs versus conventional screen-film radiographs.

METHODS

Digital phosphor-based and screen-film posteroanterior chest radiographs were obtained during 1 year in 140 asymptomatic patients without any known pulmonary disease (119 men, 21 women; mean age 52.1 years, range 23-86). Both sets of films were independently compared by two experienced radiologists in different sessions. The visibility of each of the following anatomic landmarks was graded from 1 to 3: pulmonary fissures, carina, bronchi to left upper lobe, right upper lobe and left lower lobe, bronchus intermedius, anterior and posterior junctional lines, and vessels behind the heart and diaphragm. Additionally, subjective general quality impression of each radiograph was graded similarly. Statistical analyses were performed using the chi-square test. A P value less than 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

Visibility with the digital images was statistically significantly higher for the carina, left lower lobe bronchus, bronchus intermedius, and vessels behind the heart and diaphragm. Subjective general quality impression of digital radiographs was also higher (P < 0.001). No significant visibility differences were found for pulmonary fissures or junctional lines.

CONCLUSION

Subjective visibility of anatomic structures behind the heart and diaphragm and at the hilae is significantly improved with phosphor-based digital radiography compared with conventional screen-film radiography. This suggests that pathologic processes such as pulmonary nodules, masses or consolidations projected over those structures may be more easily and reliably depicted on digital than on conventional chest X-rays.

Accelerated Progression of Coronary Calcification: Four-year Follow-up in Patients with Stable Coronary Artery Disease

PURPOSE

To prospectively assess the 4-year progression rate of coronary artery calcium (CAC) in patients with clinically stable coronary artery disease (CAD) with multi-detector row computed tomography (CT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 382 consecutive patients. All underwent baseline dual-sector spiral CT, and CT was repeated at 2 and 4 years later. Progression of CAC was assessed with measurement of the increase in total calcium score (TCS) and with repeated-measures analysis and multivariate linear regression models. Logistic regression model was used to predict incidence of new lesions.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven percent (333 of 382) of the study group were men, with mean age of 65 years +/- 11, and 13% (49 of 382) were women, with mean age of 68 years +/- 11. The average TCS increased after 4 years by sixfold from baseline in the 1st quartile, and by four-, two- and 1.5-fold in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quartiles of baseline TCS (P <.01), respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis included age; sex; natural logarithm of baseline TCS; history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, current smoking, hypercholesterolemia, and lipid-lowering therapy with cholesterol synthesis enzyme inhibitor (statin); and family history of premature CAD. Results demonstrated that natural logarithm of baseline TCS and history of current smoking were independent predictors of the 4th-year natural logarithm of TCS levels (R(2) = 0.85, P <.001). New lesions were diagnosed in 56 (15%) patients. History of statin therapy (odds ratio = 0.35; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.16, 0.77; P <.01), age with an increment of 5 years (odds ratio = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.64, 0.90; P =.01), and natural logarithm of baseline TCS (odds ratio = 0.73; 95% CI: 0.62, 0.86; P <.01) were independent predictors for new calcific lesions during 4 years.

CONCLUSION

Accelerated progression of CAC during 4 years was found in clinically stable patients with CAD.

Papillary adenocarcinoma in a thymic cyst: a pitfall of thoracoscopic excision

Carcinoma arising in a thymic cyst is very rare. We performed thoracoscopic subtotal resection of an assumed benign cyst. The patient had a reoperation when the diagnosis of papillary adenocarcinoma was established. Complete resection and pleural thermochemotherapy were performed. The patient died 26 months later from systemic metastases. Caution must be exercised when managing nontypical thymic cysts.

Congenital pulmonary venolobar syndrome: spectrum of helical CT findings with emphasis on computerized reformatting

The term congenital pulmonary venolobar syndrome refers to a wide spectrum of pulmonary developmental anomalies that may appear singly or in combination. The main components of congenital pulmonary venolobar syndrome are hypogenetic lung (including lobar agenesis, aplasia, or hypoplasia), partial anomalous pulmonary venous return, absence of pulmonary artery, pulmonary sequestration, systemic arterialization of lung, absence of inferior vena cava, and accessory diaphragm. The recent introduction of multisection helical computed tomography (CT), combined with use of advanced postprocessing graphic workstations, allows improved noninvasive delineation of complex congenital anomalies. A single fast (5-15-second) CT scan now enables the radiologist to (a) generate angiogram-like images of the anomalous pulmonary arteries and veins; (b) demonstrate tracheobronchial abnormalities by generating simulated bronchographic or bronchoscopic images; and (c) depict associated parenchymal abnormalities on axial, coronal, or sagittal images, which once represented an important advantage of magnetic resonance imaging over CT. Multisection helical CT is a helpful diagnostic tool in the preoperative evaluation of patients with suspected congenital pulmonary venolobar syndrome.

Complications of tracheal and thoracic surgery: the role of multisection helical CT and computerized reformations

Helical computed tomography (CT) has an important role in the evaluation of a wide range of congenital and acquired thoracic abnormalities. The development of advanced computerized reformations enables the generation of bronchographic and bronchoscopic images of the tracheobronchial tree, as well as angiographic images of pulmonary arteries and veins. Additionally, it provides coronal and sagittal reconstruction imaging of parenchymal abnormalities. This information is obtained by a 20-30s procedure on a typical single channel system, which makes helical CT an optimal technique for the evaluation of patients undergoing major upper airways and thoracic interventions. The recent introduction of multisection CT scanners allows faster imaging of patients with thinner collimation, thus improving spatial resolution along the longitudinal (z) axis of the patient along with reduction of motion artefacts. This article demonstrates the use of dual and quad-section helical CT in the postoperative evaluation of patients undergoing laryngo-tracheal and thoracic interventions, including laryngoplasty, tracheal endoscopic laser ablation, lobectomy, pneumonectomy, lung transplantation, sleeve resection, pulmonary angioplasty, and pulmonary artery thromboendarterectomy. Emphasis is given to the additive value of using computerized reformations over axial images, especially for delineation of complex postoperative anatomical details in the tracheobronchial tree and pulmonary vasculature.

Laryngo-tracheal anastomosis: post-operative evaluation by helical CT and computerized reformations

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose was to evaluate the role of post-operative helical computed tomography (CT) and computerized reformations in patients after laryngo-tracheal segmental resection with anastomosis.

METHODS

Helical CT and computerized reformations were obtained in 11 consecutive patients who underwent laryngo-tracheal resection with anastomosis for obstruction or stenosis caused by longstanding intubation or tracheostomy. Post-operative computer assisted cross-sectional area, coronal and sagittal diameter measurements at the level of maximal narrowing of the trachea were compared with clinical assessment in all patients. The additive value of various coronal and sagittal computerized reformations over axial images was subjectively evaluated by a consensus of a thoracic radiologist and a neuroradiologist who were blinded to clinical information.

RESULTS

Various degrees of restriction in daily activities were reported by patients with cross-sectional area narrowing of more than 50%, by 4/6 patients with cross-sectional area of less than 90mm(2), by 4/5 and 4/6 patients with coronal or sagittal narrowing of more than 25% respectively, and by 4/5 patients with sagittal diameter of less than 12mm. All five patients with cross-sectional area stenosis of less than 50% assessed themselves as 'asymptomatic'. Sagittal multi-planar and volume rendering reformations clarified or added additional information over axial images in all six patients with significant cross-sectional area stenosis (>50%). Volume rendering scores were significantly higher than minimal intensity projection reformations (P=0.01).

CONCLUSION

Our preliminary results suggest that CT-based cross-sectional area and diameter measurements of the trachea represent a clinically helpful tool for post-operative evaluation of patients with tracheoplasty. The need for post-operative endoscopy may be obviated in some cases.

Are referring clinicians aware of patients at risk from intravenous injection of iodinated contrast media?

AIM

The purpose of our study was to assess the level of awareness of referring clinicians to populations at risk for complications of intravascular administration of iodinated contrast media.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Two hundred and three physicians from three university hospitals completed an anonymous questionnaire regarding risk factors and contraindications to the intravenous administration of iodinated contrast media. The questionnaire included medical conditions with increased risk for anaphylactoid reaction (asthma, hay fever and food allergy) as well as chemotoxic (ischaemic heart disease, phaeochromocytoma and myasthenia gravis) adverse reactions, some with dependence on renal function (metformin treatment, diabetes mellitus and multiple myeloma). Two additional multiple-choice questions addressed pre-medication protocols and risk of nephrotoxicity in diabetic patients.

RESULTS

Asthma, food allergy and hay fever were recognized as risk factors by 81.3%, 77.8% and 61.6% of respondents respectively, while ischaemic heart disease, phaeochromocytoma and myasthenia gravis were defined as such only by 9.8%, 30.0% and 28.6% respectively. Metformin treatment, diabetes mellitus and multiple myeloma, in the presence of normal renal function, were considered as risk factors by 46.3%, 38.9% and 58.1% of respondents respectively. One of the generally accepted pre-medication protocols was selected by 89.8%. The risk of nephrotoxicity in a diabetic patient was correctly assessed by 63.5% of respondents.

CONCLUSION

We found a relatively high awareness among referring clinicians of a potential anaphylactoid reaction and nephrotoxicity due to iodinated contrast media. However, additional chemotoxic adverse reactions are less well known. Future efforts to improve communication between clinicians and radiologists should be focused in this direction.

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis: step-by-step perioperative care of whole lung lavage procedure

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is a rare disease characterized by the accumulation of surfactant-like material within the alveolar spaces that causes progressive respiratory failure. Improvement can be achieved with whole lung lavage.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to conduct a study of the feasibility of treating pulmonary alveolar proteinosis in a community hospital.

METHODS

Five patients were treated. We assessed procedure pulmonary functions.

RESULTS

No major sequelae occurred. Each lung was lavaged with 12 to 20 L of normal saline in cycles of 970 +/- 150 mL each (mean +/- standard deviation), over 106 +/- 49 minutes. Extubation was performed when compliance of the lavaged lung was restored. All patients showed subjective improvement. Resting and exercise oxygen saturation improved within 1 week after the lavage. A significant improvement was also noted in forced expiratory volume in 1 second, forced vital capacity, and maximal oxygen uptake, whereas total lung capacity and carbon monoxide single-breath diffusion capacity remained unchanged.

CONCLUSION

Although retrospective and based on a small sample size, our results suggest that whole lung lavage may be performed safely even in medical centers that have limited experience, if strict adherence to a protocol is maintained.

Prevalence of the juxtaphrenic peak after upper lobectomy

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of the juxtaphrenic peak after upper lobectomy in a large number of consecutive patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Available chest radiographs of 172 of 199 sequential patients who had undergone upper lobectomy in a university hospital were evaluated for the presence of a juxtaphrenic peak. The study included 98 cases with right upper lobectomy and 74 with left upper lobectomy. Radiographs were grouped in three postoperative periods: period I, within 7 days after lobectomy (n = 142); period II, between 8 and 30 days (n = 113); and period III, 31 days or more after lobectomy (n = 101). Four experienced radiologists in consensus determined the prevalence of the "juxtaphrenic peak sign," in relation to age, sex, side of lobectomy, positioning (erect or supine), presence of juxtadiaphragmatic abnormalities, and time interval since surgery.

RESULTS

The prevalence of the juxtaphrenic peak sign gradually increased from 40.6% in period I to 71.9% in period III after right upper lobectomy (p < 0.01), and from 19% to 47.7%, respectively, after left upper lobectomy (p < 0.01). Its overall prevalence was significantly higher after right upper lobectomy (58.2%) than after left upper lobectomy (40.5%) (p = 0.02), and on erect chest films (51.4%) than on supine ones (28.9%).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of the juxtaphrenic peak sign increases gradually during the weeks following lobectomy. It is more frequent on erect films and after right upper lobectomy. The juxtaphrenic peak may serve as an additional useful radiologic sign suggesting upper lobectomy.

Pulmonary-renal syndrome in systemic sclerosis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Renal failure, pulmonary hypertension, and interstitial lung disease are major causes of morbidity and mortality in systemic sclerosis (SSc). However, the concomitant occurrence of pulmonary hemorrhage associated with acute renal failure in SSc has been rarely described. The present study is the first analysis of pulmonary-renal syndrome in SSc.

PATIENT AND METHODS

We present a 44-year-old woman with SSc who died of a fulminant course of acute renal failure associated with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage. We termed this uncommon and fatal complication of SSc scleroderma-pulmonary-renal syndrome (SPRS). A search of the English-written literature yielded reports of 10 additional similar cases. These patients, together with our present case, form the basis of the present analysis.

RESULTS

The average age of the patients with SPRS was 46 years. The majority of the patients (80%) were women, and most had diffuse SSc. SPRS occurred an average of 6.4 years after disease onset and was associated with prior fibrosing alveolitis and/or D-penicillamine treatment. Interestingly, normotensive renal failure seems to characterize the scleroderma patients, because 9 of 11 (82%) had normal blood pressure. SPRS bears a poor prognosis: all of the 11 patients (100%) died within 12 months of admission. However, only 60% of the 5 patients for whom we have treatment data received corticosteroids.

CONCLUSIONS

Pulmonary-renal syndrome is a rare but fatal complication of SSc. Because the treatment data are scarce and the prognosis is poor, aggressive treatment with pulse corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, and possibly plasmapheresis is suggested.

CT findings of the chest in adults with aspirated foreign bodies

The aim of this study was to assess the imaging findings in adult patients with tracheobronchial foreign body aspiration. Nineteen patients (11 men and 8 women; age range 26-89 years) with foreign-body aspiration were retrospectively reviewed. Nine patients were outpatients with non-specific symptoms and ten were hospitalized with nonresolving pneumonia (n = 6), after detection of a dental fragment on a chest radiograph following intubation (n = 3), and there was one mentally retarded patient with empyema. An aspirated dental fragment was seen on a chest radiograph in 3 patients and an endobronchial foreign body on CT in 16, appearing as a dense structure within the bronchial lumen. The foreign body was right sided in 14 cases and left sided in 5. Three cases were missed at first interpretation. Associated findings on CT were volume loss, hyperlucency with air trapping and bronchiectasis in the affected lobe. Thirteen patients were managed with bronchoscopy, whereas 2 needed thoracotomy. In 1 patient bronchoscopy failed to detect a foreign body, indicating a false-positive CT diagnosis. One patient expelled an aspirated tablet and two refused invasive procedure. The foreign bodies found mainly were bones and dental fragments. A high clinical suspicion is necessary to diagnose a foreign body. Since CT is often used to evaluate various respiratory problems in adults, it may be the first imaging modality to discover an unsuspected aspirated foreign body in the bronchial tree.

Pulmonary manifestations of early schistosome infection among nonimmune travelers

PURPOSE

The clinical aspects of acute pulmonary schistosomiasis among nonimmune patients have not been well characterized.

METHODS

We evaluated 8 patients who presented with pulmonary symptoms and abnormal chest radiographs after recent travel to Africa. Diagnosis was based on the detection of schistosomal eggs or positive serology.

RESULTS

Of 60 patients evaluated in our center for schistosomiasis during a 3-year period, 8 (6 with Schistosoma hematobium, 2 with S. mansoni) had pulmonary symptoms. These symptoms appeared 3 to 6 weeks after exposure and consisted of dry cough and shortness of breath without concurrent fever. The mean (+/- SD) eosinophil count was 4020 +/- 1400 per micromL. Chest radiography revealed multiple small nodules in 7 patients; in 1 patient, a diffuse interstitial infiltrate was also seen. Computerized tomographic scans of the chest were obtained in 4 patients; the scans confirmed the nodular pattern and detected a greater number of nodules. A transbronchial biopsy in 1 patient revealed eosinophilic pneumonia without detection of larva or eggs.

CONCLUSION

Pulmonary manifestations during the early stage of schistosomal infection may occur with either S. hematobium or S. mansoni infection. These manifestations may represent an immunologic process, as is thought to be responsible for the febrile systemic response (Katayama fever) to acute infection.

Treatment of a recurrent bulbar urethral stricture after Urolume wallstent implantation with a second inner Urethrospiral-2 urethral stent

Although the Urolume wallstent has been proven to be effective in the treatment of bulbar urethral strictures, in some instances obstruction may recur. We present a patient in whom recurrent stricture after wallstent implantation was managed by insertion of a second inner Porges Urethrospiral-2 stent inside the first one.

CT diagnosis of malpositioned chest tubes

Insertion of a chest tube into the pleural space is standard management for various pleural disorders. Malpositioning of chest tubes in extrathoracic, intraparenchymal and mediastinal locations and in the fissures is common. Malpositioning results not only in inadequate drainage of air and fluid but may also result in increased morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis of a malpositioned tube is sometimes difficult to establish on a chest radiograph. CT, however, has proven to be extremely accurate in evaluating the position of a chest tube and has often provided additional valuable information with significant therapeutic impact.

Nephroureterectomy through a single lumbar incision combined with endoscopic incision of a bladder cuff

Nephroureterectomy is the accepted approach in treating upper urinary tract carcinoma. We present a modification of transurethral resection of the intramural ureter, using endoscopic incision of a bladder cuff around the ureteral ostium as the first step in performing nephroureterectomy through a single lumbar incision.

Virtual bronchoscopy in children: early clinical experience

OBJECTIVE

Virtual bronchoscopy is a new noninvasive technique that provides an internal view of the tracheobronchial tree. The purpose of our study was to assess the role of this technique as compared with fiberoptic bronchoscopy in the evaluation of suspected compression or narrowing of the trachea and main bronchi in children.

CONCLUSION

Preliminary results suggest that virtual bronchoscopy may have a useful complementary role to fiberoptic bronchoscopy in evaluation of the tracheobronchial tree of children.

Coronary calcium measurements by double helical computed tomography. Using the average instead of peak density algorithm improves reproducibility

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

Coronary calcium (CC) measured by fast computed tomography (CT) was proposed recently as a noninvasive method of monitoring the coronary atherosclerotic process. Assessment of the reproducibility of CC measurements (mainly interstudy variability) is essential for consistent interpretation of serial studies.

METHODS

The authors scanned 74 patients (50 men and 24 women) twice on the same day to determine the interstudy variability of a new scoring algorithm, using the average instead of conventional peak CT density values.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients had no calcium on either scan. In the remaining 55 patients, interstudy variability was decreased by 31% using the average algorithm (32%-23%; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Using the average instead of conventional peak density score provides better reproducible measurements of calcium by double helical CT.

Absence of coronary calcification on double-helical CT scans: predictor of angiographically normal coronary arteries in elderly women?

PURPOSE

To test the hypothesis that angiographically normal coronary arteries in elderly women are identifiable by the absence of coronary calcification on double-helical computed tomographic (CT) scans.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-eight consecutive women (age range, 60-76 years) underwent coronary angiography for chest pain evaluation, as well as double-helical CT. Thirty women (mean age, 65 years +/- 5) had coronary artery disease (CAD), defined as any angiographic disease, and 18 women (mean age, 66 years +/- 4) had angiographically normal coronary arteries.

RESULTS

Women with angiographically normal coronary arteries had lower coronary calcification scores than those of patients with CAD: 5.7 +/- 11 versus 580 +/- 634, respectively (P = .0004). Seven women with angiographically normal coronary arteries demonstrated mild coronary calcification (score < 50). Of the 11 women without coronary calcification, none had CAD. Thus, the absence of coronary calcification on double-helical CT scans in elderly women was predictive of angiographically normal coronary arteries with 61% sensitivity, 100% specificity, and 85% accuracy.

CONCLUSION

Double-helical CT is an accurate, noninvasive modality for diagnosing angiographically normal coronary arteries in elderly symptomatic women.

Re-expansion pulmonary oedema following spontaneous pneumothorax

Re-expansion pulmonary oedema may occur after chest tube drainage of pneumothorax and can give rise to cardiopulmonary manifestations which range from the mild to the severe. In order to evaluate the prevalence and the clinical manifestations of this complication, all patients with spontaneous pneumothorax managed with chest tube drainage were evaluated over an 8-yr period (1986-1994). A chest radiograph was performed routinely in all patients within 4 h of tube insertion. Lung expansion and the appearance of infiltrates within the lungs were investigated specifically. Re-expansion oedema was noted in three of 320 episodes (0.9%). Two of the three patients needed rapid and extensive clinical treatment.

Calcification of coronary arteries: detection and quantification with double-helix CT

PURPOSE

To evaluate the accuracy of double-helix computed tomography (CT) in coronary artery calcification detection and quantification.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred sixty patients with coronary disease (135 men, 25 women; age range, 45-62 years), of whom 138 had obstructive (stenosis of > 50% of diameter; n = 129) or mild (< 50% stenosis; n = 9) coronary artery disease (CAD) and 22 had normal coronary arteries (per angiographic findings), and 56 age-matched healthy control subjects underwent double-helix CT.

RESULTS

Double-helix CT findings indicated that calcification was significantly more prevalent in patients with CAD (> 83%) than in patients with normal coronary arteries (27%) or in healthy control subjects (34%; P < .01). Sensitivity in detecting obstructive CAD was high (91%); however, specificity was low (52%) because of calcification in nonobstructive lesions. Comparison of double-helix CT and angiographic findings indicated that double-helix CT was 84% accurate with positive and negative predictive values of 89% and 59%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Double-helix CT is a useful noninvasive method for detection and quantification of coronary artery calcification.

Spiral CT and 3D image reconstruction of vascular rings and associated tracheobronchial anomalies

OBJECTIVE

Spiral CT (SCT) angiography and three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction methods represent noninvasive tools in diagnosis of vascular rings and associated tracheobronchial anomalies in the pediatric age group.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three patients suspected on clinical and conventional radiological grounds of having vascular and tracheobronchial anomalies were examined using SCT. Three-dimensional images were reconstructed using a surface rendering technique.

RESULTS

In one case the diagnosis of complete double aortic arch was confirmed by angiography. In the other two patients the SCT and 3D reconstruction established the diagnosis of pulmonary sling and right aortic arch associated with left aberrant subclavian artery and angiography could be avoided.

CONCLUSION

Spiral CT and color-coded 3D reconstruction represent important additional tools and perhaps alternatives to angiography or other noninvasive techniques used in evaluation of vascular anomalies of the thoracic aorta and pulmonary arteries in infants and children.

Synergism between infarct-borne left ventricular dysfunction and cardiomegaly in increasing the risk of coronary bypass surgery

The effect of cardiomegaly on operative and late mortality in patients with left ventricular dysfunction undergoing coronary bypass operation was investigated. The study group consisted of 178 patients whose left ventricular ejection fraction was below 45% and who were operated on from 1978 through 1985. Forty-five patients (group A) had severe left ventricular dysfunction (ejection fraction < 30%) and 133 (group B) had moderate dysfunction (30% > ejection fraction > 45%). Twenty-four of group A (53%) and 54 of group B (41%) patients had cardiomegaly (cardiothoracic ratio on chest x-ray films > 0.5). There were 10 (6%) hospital deaths, four in group A (9%) and six in group B (4.5%). All four deaths in group A and the six deaths in group B were patients who had cardiomegaly. Regardless of the severity of the left ventricular dysfunction, there was no operative death among patients with normal heart size (p < 0.001). Age over 65, bypass time longer than 2 hours, and incomplete revascularization emerged as risk factors. Follow-up ranged from 5 to 13 years (mean 7.8 years). Overall 5-year actuarial survival, including hospital mortality, was 80% +/- 3%. Reduced 5-year survival was observed in patients with cardiomegaly (67% +/- 5% versus 91% +/- 3%, p < 0.05). Five- and 10-year survival of patients from group A with cardiomegaly was 53% +/- 7% and 18% +/- 13%, respectively.

Nocardia asteroides infection complicating rheumatoid arthritis

We describe a case of pulmonary nocardiosis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) receiving treatment with combined immunosuppressive agents and prednisone. This infection is still considered rare, hard to diagnose, and difficult to treat. To the best of our knowledge, such a case has not been described in a patient with RA.

[Pulmonary disease induced by methotrexate]

A 68-year-old man with rheumatoid arthritis developed methotrexate-induced lung disease. He presented with fever, cough, respiratory distress and pulmonary infiltrates, which were initially mistaken for pneumonia. Alertness to this rare and dangerous complication of methotrexate treatment will reduce possible damage and help maintain its place as a leading medication for rheumatoid arthritis.

Isolated ectopic lung uptake of technetium 99m methylene diphosphonate on bone scintigraphy in primary amyloidosis

Pulmonary deposition of technetium 99m methylene diphosphonate was found on a bone scan of a patient with undiagnosed primary AL amyloidosis. Unusual clinical manifestations during the course of the disease led to a post-mortem diagnosis. The mechanisms for pulmonary and other ectopic soft tissue bone scan tracer depositions, as well as their significance in the diagnosis of amyloidosis, are discussed.

Computed tomography in children with esophageal and airway trauma

Computed tomography (CT) was used in five children, four with esophageal and one with airway trauma. The examination contributed valuable information that aided in planning and evaluating therapy: (1) it assessed mediastinal and pleural cavity involvement prior to surgery or drainage; (2) it evaluated the efficacy of drainage; (3) it gave excellent information about the position of chest tubes; and (4) it demonstrated unsuspected pneumothoraces, pleural effusion, pulmonary infiltrates, and lung perforation by a chest tube. In the postoperative assessment of laryngotracheal fracture, neck radiographs were useless since the airways were obliterated by hematomas and edema. In this situation, CT showed the position and state of the laryngeal cartilages. However, CT findings were not pathognomonic for esophageal tears or airway fractures. The primary diagnosis was still made by conventional radiography. Esophageal tears were accurately demonstrated by gastrografin swallow and the tracheolaryngeal fracture was diagnosed by a lateral neck radiograph--the state of the child permitting no lengthy workup. CT and conventional radiography with contrast studies play a complementary role in esophageal and airway trauma in children.

Castleman's disease. An uncommon computed tomographic feature

A case of localized intrathoracic Castleman tumor demonstrated, on CT scan, calcifications in a circumferential distribution. The prevalence of calcifications in Castleman's disease and the differential diagnosis of the above unusual CT findings are discussed.

Pneumatic rupture of the esophagus caused by carbonated drinks

Pneumatic rupture of the esophagus occurs when gas under pressure is accidentally delivered into the oral cavity. To the 4 cases previously described we add 2 pediatric patients and in both the source of the offending gas was a bottle of carbonated drink. The mild initial symptoms were followed in both by physical and radiographic findings suggesting pharyngoesophageal perforation. Early radiologic findings included free subcutaneous and mediastinal air, followed later by hydropneumothorax and mediastinal widening as well as leak of contrast material on gastrografin swallow. CT findings contributed to patient evaluation and management.

Prediction of atrial and ventricular fibrillation complicating myocardial infarction from admission data: a prospective study

This study set out to examine prospectively two logistic formulae based on admission clinical data to predict ventricular or atrial fibrillation complicating acute myocardial infarction. A prospective study of 87 consecutive patients with acute transmural myocardial infarction was conducted. The formula for predicting ventricular fibrillation from the diastolic blood pressure, degree of ST-segment elevation, and QTc had a sensitivity of 93%, specificity of 83%, and a predictive value for an abnormal test of 62% (13 of 14 patients who developed ventricular fibrillation were identified). The formula for predicting atrial fibrillation from the age of the patient, a history of heart failure, systolic blood pressure, and four electrocardiographic parameters had a sensitivity of 78%, specificity of 85%, and a predictive value of 67% (14 of 18 patients identified). Our study shows that patients with myocardial infarction who are liable to develop ventricular or atrial fibrillation can be identified on admission from simple clinical data.

Pleuro-pulmonary manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus: clinical features of its subgroups. Prognostic and therapeutic implications

Correct identification of the subsets of pulmonary lupus has an unquestioned importance in planning the proper therapeutic regimen in this extremely variegated disease. Asymptomatic pulmonary lupus needs no treatment; however, pulmonary involvement in lupus may be life threatening, in which case prompt and aggressive treatment is mandatory. The different aspects of pulmonary lupus are demonstrated through the clinical histories of patients who suffered from pleuro-pulmonary lupus. The following entities are presented: lupus pneumonitis, lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary hemorrhage, pulmonary embolism associated with circulating lupus anticoagulant, lupus pleuritis and weakness of the diaphragm.

Pyloric channel duplication in a newborn infant

This is the first reported case of pyloric channel duplication demonstrated preoperatively by endoscopy and contrast radiography. Endoscopically, the lesion resembled a mucosal flap overlying the pyloric orifice. On radiography the lesion presented as a polypoidal filling defect in the duodenal bulb. The infant had, in addition, postduplication stress ulcer.