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Background: Three-dimensional (3D) printing has been increasingly used in medical applications with the creation of accurate patient-specific 3D printed models in medical imaging data. This study has been planned based on the fact that research on 3D printing in pancreaticobiliary disease is limited due to lack of studies on validation of model accuracy. Methods: This is an innovative study where general surgery residents are presented 5 distinct hepatopancreatobiliary disease scenarios to generate a perception and required to compare their perception level of these cases with magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), 3D images and 1:1 solid models that the pathology, diverse diagnosis and presurgery diagnosis stages can be observed. This study is single-centered. Results: the dilated pancreaticobiliary intervention based on scenarios for general surgery residency was more original since there was no prior study that includes both model building and the evaluation of the perception created by the model. Five scenarios provided qualitative assessment with results showing the usefulness of 3D models when used as clinical tools in preoperative planning, simulation of interventional procedures, surgical education, and training. the perception level in the 3D model, MRCP (Z: 3.854, p: 0.000) and the 3D image (Z: 2.865, p: 0.004) was higher; likewise, the 3D-STL image was higher compared to the MRCP image (Z: 3.779, p: 0.000). All subspecialists agree that 3D models provided better understanding of dilated pancreaticobiliary pathoanatomy and improved surgical planning. Conclusions: A thoroughly outlined genuine patient situation layout aimed for general surgery training can be installed and monitored with the support of 3D printing technology of this study. This can be utilized to develop the comprehension of pathoanatomical variations of complex pancreaticobiliary illness and to adopt a surgical approach., Aliye Uster Foundation 2017 Scientific Project Support Award, AUF-2017 in Turkey, This study is subsidized by Aliye Uster Foundation 2017 Scientific Project Support Award, AUF-2017 in Turkey.

To compare three chemical shift MRI techniques [two-dimensional (2D) dual gradient echo (dGRE), 3D VIBE, and 3D VIBE-Dixon] at 3 T and 2D dGRE technique at 1.5 T to assess their ability of detecting microscopic fat in adrenal adenomas and differentiating between adenomas and non-adenomas. Seventy-eight patients with 97 lesions (78 adenomas, 19 non-adenomas) underwent both 1.5 T and 3 T chemical shift MRI. The Wilcoxon signed-ranked test was used to determine if there was significant difference between the signal intensity index (SII) values of each technique to assess their ability to detect microscopic fat in adrenal adenomas. ROC analysis was performed for the SII values of each technique, the adrenal-to-spleen SI ratio of 2D dGRE technique at 3 T, and the fat fraction values of the 3D VIBE-Dixon technique to identify the optimal threshold for differentiation of adrenal adenomas from non-adenomas. For detection of microscopic fat, the mean SII value of 2D dGRE technique at 1.5 T was significantly higher than that of the chemical shift imaging techniques at 3 T (p = 0.001). For discrimination of adenomas from non-adenomas, the area under the curve (AUC) and 95% confidence interval values of 2D dGRE technique at 1.5 T and 2D dGRE, 3D VIBE, 3D VIBE-Dixon techniques at 3 T were calculated as 1.00 (1.00–1.00), 0.991 (0.978–1.00), 0.999 (0.995–1.00), 0.993 (0.979–1.00), respectively, for the SII. Chemical shift MRI at 1.5 T using the 2D dGRE technique provided the most accurate differentiation between adenomas and non-adenomas. However, there was no statistically significant difference between chemical shift imaging techniques at 1.5 T and 3 T.

Purpose: To assess the use of virtual monochromatic images (VMI) for discrimination of affected and non-affected bowel walls in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) as well as to compare mural enhancement between patients with and without CD. Materials and methods: This retrospective study included 61 patients (47 with CD, 14 without CD). Attenuation value (AV), signal-to noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were obtained at VMI energy levels from 40 to 110 keV in 10 keV increment. Analyses were performed among affected and non-affected bowel walls in CD patients, as well as from bowel walls in patients without CD. Image quality and mural enhancement were evaluated at VMI energy levels at 40, 70, and 110 keV. Results: At all energy levels of VMI, each quantitative data for AV, SNR, and CNR showed statistically significant difference between diseased and non-diseased bowel walls in CD patients. In the quantitative assessment of patients with and without CD, the optimal AV and SNR were obtained at 40 keV, and the optimal CNR was obtained at 70 keV. For the qualitative assessment, the best image quality and mural enhancement were obtained at 70 keV and 40 keV, respectively. Conclusion: VMI are helpful for the differentiation of affected bowel walls in CD patients, providing high diagnostic accuracy. © 2020, Japan Radiological Society.

Panitumumab and cetuximab are monoclonal antibodies known to be effective in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Although the survival benefits when combined with chemotherapy have been determined, there are no studies comparing the two agents with chemotherapy in the second-line treatment. In this study, we aimed to compare the efficacy of cetuximab vs panitumumab in patients who previously received chemotherapy. Who progressed after first-line treatment for K-ras wild type mCRC were analyzed. The efficacy of cetuximab vs panitumumab on overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) when combined with FOLFIRI regimen was compared retrospectively. Median PFS was 6.9 months in the cetuximab group and 4.7 months in the panitumumab group. Median OS cetuximab and panitumumab groups were 18.4 and 12.2 months, respectively. In the second-line treatment of K-ras wild type mCRC, both PFS and OS were found to be longer in patients receiving cetuximab than in patients receiving panitumumab, but no statistically significant difference was found.

Background The aim of the study is to reveal the contribution of complete response (CR) to treatment to overall survival (OS) in patients with unresectable metastatic colorectal cancer. In addition, to evaluate progression-free survival (PFS) in patients who attained CR to treatment and to examine the clinicopathologic features of the patient group with CR. Methods This article is a retrospective chart review. Patients diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer were divided into two groups. The systemic treatment was compared with the patients who received a full response according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST1.1) and those who did not attain CR (progression partial response and stable response) in terms of both PFS and OS data, and the effect of attaining CR to treatment on prognosis was evaluated. Results A total of 222 patients were included in the study. 202 of 222 patients could be evaluated in terms of complete response. All data from their files were tabulated and analyzed retrospectively. The mean age of diagnosis of the study group was 60.13 ± 12.52 years. The total number of patients who attained CR to treatment was 31 (15.3%); 171 (84.6%) patients did not attain CR. Patients who had a CR had longer median PFS times than patients who did not have a CR (15.2 vs. 7.4 months, P). Patients who had CR had longer median survival times than patients who did not have a CR (39.2 vs. 16.9 months, P). In subgroup patients who underwent primary surgery, the number of patients who attained CR was statistically higher compared with the number of patients who did not attain CR (p). Complete response was less common in the presence of liver metastasis and bone metastasis (p = 0.041 and p = 0.046, respectively), had a negative prognostic effect. In other words, 89.1% of patients with liver metastasis, 100.0% of patients with bone metastasis, and 88.7% of those who died did not have a CR to the treatment. According to multivariate analysis, CR to treatment, primary surgery, first-line chemotherapy (combination compared with fluoropyrimidine), and no bone metastasis were found to be predictors for OS. Conclusion Providing CR with systemic treatment in patients with unresectable metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) contributes to prognosis. The primary resection in our secondary acquisitions from the study, the number of metastatic regions and the combination therapy regimens also contributed to the prognosis.

WOS: 000449010500007, PubMed ID: 30381274, Background/Aims: Liver transplantation (LT) is now the standard of care for most end-stage liver diseases. Over the next 30 years, advances in medicine and technology will greatly improve the survival rates of patients after this procedure. The aim of the present study was to analyze retrospectively the results of 1001 patients withLT. Materials and Methods: Medical reports of 989 patients were analyzed retrospectively. Data were obtained from the patient's data chart. Descriptive statistics were used to describe continuous variables (mean, median, and standard deviation). Results: A total of 1001 LTs for 989 recipients were performed at Ege University Organ Transplantation and Research Center between 1994 and 2017. Therewere 639 male and 350 female recipients. Among 1001 LTs, there were 438 deceased donors and 563 living donors. The age interval of the patients was 4 months to 71 years old. The median Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score was 20. There were 12 deceased liver donors using the split method. There were 12 cases subject to retransplantation. In living donor LT grafts, 423 right lobes, 46 left lobes, and 94 left lateral sectors were used. In the first monitoring, the total annual mortality rate was 130 cases (13%). The mortality rate in retransplantation was found to be 66%. A 1-year survival rate of 87% was generally established. Conclusion: LThas been improving consistently over the last two decades. Ege University is one of the biggest liver transplant centers in Turkey for both technical and educational perspective.

BackgroundThe optimal timing of surgery following preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is controversial. This trial aimed to compare pathological complete response (pCR) rates obtained after an interval of 8 weeks or less versus more than 8 weeks.MethodsPatients with locally advanced rectal adenocarcinoma situated within 12 cm of the anal verge (T3–4 or N+ disease) were randomized to undergo total mesorectal excision (TME) within 8 weeks (classical interval, CI group) or after 8 weeks (long interval, LI group) following CRT.ResultsAmong the 327 included patients (CI 160, LI 167), the pCR rate was significantly higher in the LI group than in the CI group (10·0 versus 18·6 per cent; P = 0·027). The highest pCR rate (29 per cent) was observed between 10 and 11 weeks. There was statistically significant disease regression in the LI group, with better stage (P = 0·004) and T category (P = 0·001) than in the CI group. There was no significant difference in surgical quality (rates of tumour-positive margins, TME quality, anastomotic leakage and intraoperative perforation) between the groups. The overall morbidity rate was 22·5 per cent in the CI group and 19·8 per cent in the LI group (P = 0·307). Regression analysis including sex, age, clinical stage, tumour location, tumour differentiation, TME quality, concomitant chemotherapy and interval to surgery revealed no statistically significant predictors of pCR.ConclusionDisease regression and pCR rate are increased with an interval between CRT and surgery exceeding 8 weeks. Registration number: NCT03287843 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Purpose Given the lack of information about abdominal imaging findings and correlation with clinical features of COVID-19, we aimed to evaluate the changes in hepatic attenuation during the course of disease. Our aim was to correlate the liver-to-spleen ratio (L/S), clinical, laboratory findings, and lung CT scores of patients with COVID-19 who had two consecutive chest CTs. Methods A retrospective search was performed between March 1, 2020 and April 26, 2020 to identify patients who had positive RT-PCR tests and two unenhanced chest CTs. Scans that were obtained at hospital admission and follow-up were reviewed to assess L/S and lung CT scores. Patients were divided into two groups based on lung CT scores (non-progressive vs progressive). Patient demographics, laboratory findings, length of hospital stay, and survival were noted from electronic medical records. Results Twenty patients in the progressive group and 7 patients in the non-progressive group were identified. the mean L/S of the progressive group (1.13 +/- 0.3) was lower than that of the non-progressive group (1.21 +/- 0.29) at hospital admission but there was no significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.547). L/S at follow-up was significantly different between the groups as the mean L/S values of the progressive and non-progressive groups were 1.02 +/- 0.23 and 1.25 +/- 0.29, respectively (p = 0.009). L/S was negatively correlated with AST and ALT (r = - 0.46,p = 0.016 andr = - 0.534,p = 0.004, respectively). There were significant differences between the two groups in terms of WBC, neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, and platelet counts that were obtained at hospital admission. Length of hospital stay was significantly longer in patients in the progressive group (p = 0.035). Conclusions Decrease in L/S may be observed in patients with elevated lung CT scores at follow-up. WBC, neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, and platelet counts at hospital admission may predict the progression of COVID-19.

PubMed: 31566047, Non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (NHL) are common malignant tumors in children and adolescents. Among them diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCL) are relatively rare as compared to non-cleaved small cell lymphoma (mostly Burkitt’s-BL) and lymphoblastic lymphoma (LL). While BL has abdominal or cervical site predilection, LL (mostly T-cell) tends to have mediastinal involvement. However, diffuse large B-cell lymphomas may involve abdomen, peripheral lymph nodes, skin, bone, other rare sites. Ureteral NHLs are extremely rare in children; however, many cases have been reported in adults. In adults the histopathology is usually follicular lymphoma. Only one case of unilateral ureter DLBCL has been reported in an adolescent in the past. Here we report a case of bilateral ureteral DLBCL to highlight the unusual presentation of NHLs and that it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute renal insufficiency. © 2019, © 2019 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

WOS: 000462163200001, PubMed ID: 30644365, PURPOSE We aimed to evaluate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features, including signal intensities, enhancement patterns and T2 signal intensity ratios to differentiate oncocytoma from chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (RCC). METHODS This retrospective study included 17 patients with oncocytoma and 33 patients with chromophobe RCC who underwent dynamic MRI. Two radiologists independently reviewed images blinded to pathology. Morphologic characteristics, T1 and T2 signal intensities were reviewed. T2 signal intensities, wash-in, wash-out values, T2 signal intensity ratios were calculated. Sensitivity and specificity analyses were performed. RESULTS Mean ages of patients with oncocytoma and chromophobe RCC were 61.0 +/- 11.6 and 58.5 +/- 14.0 years, respectively. Mean tumor size was 60.6 +/- 47.3 mm for oncocytoma, 61.7 +/- 45.9 mm for chromophobe RCC. Qualitative imaging findings in conventional MRI have no distinctive feature in discrimination of two tumors. Regarding signal intensity ratios, oncocytomas were higher than chromophobe RCCs. Renal oncocytomas showed higher signal intensity ratios and wash-in values than chromophobe RCCs in all phases. Fast spin-echo T2 signal intensities were higher in oncocytomas than chromophobe RCCs. CONCLUSION Signal intensity ratios, fast spin-echo T2 signal intensities and wash-in values constitute diagnostic parameters for discriminating between oncoytomas and chromophobes. In the excretory phase of dynamic enhanced images, oncocytomas have higher signal intensity ratio than chromophobe RCC and high wash-in values strongly imply a diagnosis of renal oncocytoma.

PubMed ID: 25921627, Angiomyolipoma (AML) of the kidney is the most common benign neoplasm encountered indaily clinical practice. Typical AMLs comprise three elements: mature adipose tissue, bloodvessels, and smooth muscle. Since classic AMLs contain considerable amount of adiposetissue, they are easily recognized on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonanceimaging (MRI) [1]. On the other hand, some AMLs comprise too little fat to be detected withunenhanced CT. These lesions are called ''fat poor AMLs'' that may be misdiagnosed asrenal cell carcinoma (RCC) on cross sectional imaging [2,3]. Angiomyolipoma with epithelialcysts (AMLEC) is an extremely rare subtype of fat poor AML, which contains epithelial-linedcysts. According to best of our knowledge imaging findings of AMLEC is very scarce and onlya total of 18 cases have been reported so far [4-8]. Herein, we aimed to report the MRIfeatures of AMLEC that resembles Bosniak category III lesion on MRI and emphasize thepotential role of dual gradient-echo imaging in detecting small amount of fat in AMLEC. © 2015 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS on behalf of the Editions francaises de radiologie.

Background Obesity and related kidney diseases have become a global epidemic problem. However, the underlying pathogenesis of obesity-related renal diseases has not been clearly understood. In this study, we explored the link between renal volume (RV) determined by computed tomography (CT) and renal histology together with functional parameters in an obese population. Materials and methods Eighty-two kidney donors who underwent CT for the measurement of kidney volume and zero-hour renal biopsy for renal histology were included in this cross-sectional study. Protein creatinine clearance and eGFR were evaluated in 24-h urine specimens as indicators of renal function. Results Mean body mass index (BMI) was 28 ± 4·2 kg/m2; 32·9% (n = 27) were obese. Mean RV was 196 ± 36 cm3. RV was positively correlated with BMI, body surface area and creatinine clearance and negatively with HDL-cholesterol in the whole population. Renal function parameters of obese subjects were better, and their renal volumes were higher compared with the nonobese subjects. In obese subjects, corrected RV was positively correlated with glomerular filtration rate (r = 0·46, P = 0·01) and negatively with sclerotic glomeruli (r = −0·38, P = 0·04) and chronicity index (r = −0·43, P = 0·02). In adjusted ordinal logistic regression analysis, corrected RV was significantly associated with chronicity index (OR: 0·96; P = 0·01). Conclusions In obese cases, decreased RV determined by CT is associated with worse renal histology. In this population, kidney imaging techniques may provide important clues about renal survival.

Gossypiboma (retained surgical sponge) is a pseudotumor within the body that is composed of non-absorbable surgical material with a cotton matrix. Because the symptoms of gossypiboma usually are nonspecific and may appear years after surgery, the diagnosis of gossypiboma may be difficult because the condition may mimic a benign or malignant soft-tissue tumour in the abdomen and pelvis. A 61-year-old woman with a one-year history of left upper-quadrant pain and weight loss was referred to our center. She had undergone peptic ulcer perforation 23 year ago. Physical examination revealed dullness and palpable mass in the left upper abdomen. On examination by computed tomography (CT), a hypodense mass of 12 cm in diameter between the greater curvature of the stomach, pancreas, and splenic hilus was detected. Upon exploration, a mass lesion of 10 cm in diameter was detected between the greater curvature of the stomach and splenic hilus, which caused dense adhesions not in communication with the pancreas. It was excised and a splenectomy was performed. After a macroscopic examination, the mass lesion was diagnosed as gossypiboma. Although ultrasonography (US), CT, angiography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to diagnose gossypiboma, definitive diagnosis is possibile only upon surgery or histopathological examination. As a result, when an abdominal mass is observed, surgeons should carefully investigate the patient’s past surgical history while taking the possibility of gossypiboma into consideration.

Purpose: To assess the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal and contrast-enhancement features of uterine fibroids before and after embolization, and to determine whether or not there are pre-embolization MRI characteristics that predict the volume reduction of fibroids. Material and Methods: Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) was carried out in 28 fibroids of 20 patients, all of whom were symptomatic. The patients were prospectively evaluated with T1-weighted, T2-weighted, and gadolinium-enhanced T1 MRI sequences before and 6 months after embolization. The relationship between the characteristics of MRI signal and contrast-enhancement features of fibroids before the procedure and the change in size of the lesions after treatment was investigated. Results: Before embolization, the mean volume of fibroids was 123 cm3 (8–560 cm3). The decrease rate in fibroid volumes was 44.6% (range 7–70%) 6 months after embolization. Volume reduction was more prominent in fibroids that had a high signal intensity on T2-weighted images and a marked contrast enhancement on T1-weighted images ( P Conclusion: MRI is an effective method for revealing size and signal changes of fibroids after embolization. MRI signal characteristics and the contrast-enhancement pattern of fibroids before embolization can predict tumor volume reduction after embolization.

OBJECTIVE. The objective of our study was to evaluate lactulose solution as a new oral contrast agent with the use of peroral CT enterography to determine the adequacy of luminal distention and conspicuity of the bowel wall.CONCLUSION. Peroral CT enterography performed with lactulose solution is a simple and noninvasive method of evaluating the small bowel by obtaining good distention. It can also be used at routine abdominal examinations as a negative contrast agent instead of iodinated oral contrast medium, especially for CT angiography.

Introduction: The aim of the study is to investigate the efficacy of the magnetic resonance fluoroscopy in the diagnosis and staging of the pelvic prolapse. Materials and methods: The study consisted of 46 patients who were known to have pelvic prolapses from their vaginal examination. Thirty women who underwent vaginal exam and shown not have pelvic prolapse were selected as a control group. Firstly, pelvic sagittal FSE T2 weighted images of all the women were acquired in 0.3 T open MR equipment than sagittal MR-fluoroscopic images using spoiled gradient echo sequences were obtained during pelvic strain. Physical examination and MR-fluoroscopic findings were compared. The relationship between the stages of prolapse established by both of the methods was evaluated statistically with Pearson's correlation analysis. Results: Physical examination and MR findings were very concordant in the diagnosis of pelvic prolapse and statistical correlations in the stages of prolapse were established between both of the methods (P < 0.01 for anterior and middle comportment, P < 0.05 for posterior comportment). Conclusion: We conclude that MR-fluoroscopy is a non-invasive, easily applied, dynamic useful method without contrast agent in the diagnosis and staging of pelvic organ prolapse. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of percutaneous treatment under sonographic guidance in abdominal hydatid cysts. Material and Methods: Fifty‐two hydatid cysts in 33 patients were treated using a percutaneous approach under sonographic guidance. Forty‐five cysts were located in the liver, 6 in the spleen, and 1 in the pancreas. Forty‐nine cysts were type I, and 3 were type II. Thirty‐one cysts in 15 patients were treated with puncture and aspiration of the contents, injection of hypertonic saline solution, and respiration (PAIR); 15 cysts in 14 patients were treated with puncture, aspiration of cyst contents, injection of hypertonic saline solution, drainage, and injection of sclerosing agent (PAIDS); and 6 cysts in 4 patients were treated with puncture, aspiration of cyst contents, injection of sclerosing agent, and re‐aspiration (mPAIDS). Hypertonic saline or alcohol was used as a scolicidal agent. The follow‐up period was between 17 and 53 months. Results: A decrease in the dimensions of the cysts, solidification of the contents, and irregularity in the walls of cysts, all of which were considered signs of cure, were found in all patients. Recurrence was observed in one case and anaphylaxis in one. Conclusion: Percutaneous treatment of abdominal hydatid cysts is a safe, easily applicable, well‐tolerated, and effective method.

Brown tumors are one of the characteristics of primary hyperparathyroidism, although, in some cases, they are noted with secondary hyperparathyroidism as well. The authors present a case of a 50-year-old woman with primary hyperparathyroidism caused by parathyroid carcinoma with an unusual location of a brown tumor in the calcaneus. She first presented with pain and swelling over the heel and ankle, and the diagnosis was suspected by radiographs. Biopsy of the calcaneal lesion confirmed a brown tumor. After the parathyroid lesion was removed surgically, her symptoms were relieved. The calcaneal lesion was treated with immobilization of the foot.

Diagnosis of liver infestation by alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is based on serologic, sonographic and computed tomography (CT) findings. Experience with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrates that features of this disease are limited. CT and MRI findings of 14 cases with hepatic AE were compared in this report. We have described the MRI appearance of hepatic AE, which exhibits variable signal intensities on T1- and T2-weighted images. Fibrous and parasitic tissue showed low signal both on T1- and, generally, on T2-weighted images. In a few cases, a high signal on T2-weighted images may be observed, due either to central necrotic zones or to small peripheral cyst. MRI than by CT was more easily identified central necrosis. However, MRI seemed to be less effective than CT in allowing us to reach a positive diagnosis, due to its inability to show microcalcifications. In addition, MRI may not reveal small lesions. In most cases, T1-weighted images revealed more clearly than CT did the margins of the lesions and the hepatic extension, especially to hepatic veins, vena cava and perihepatic spaces. (C) 2003 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

We present CT, MRI and venography findings in 13-year boy with mediastinal fibrosis and superior vena cava (SVC) thrombosis associated with Behcet's disease. Fibrosing mediastinitis is an excessive fibrotic reaction that occurs in the mediastinum and may lead to compression of mediastinal structures (especially vascular). This condition is usually idiopathic, though many (and perhaps most) cases in the USA are thought to be caused by an abnormal immunologic response to Histoplasma capsulatum infection. SVC syndrome secondary to extrinsic compression by mediastinal fibrosis combined with Behcet's disease has rarely been described. Radiological investigations of this syndrome are necessary to avoid a useless anticoagulant therapy. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

We report a case of pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) within Baker's cyst in a 55-year-old man who admitted to hospital with palpable popliteal mass. The mass was examined with ultrasonography (US), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA). MRA was the best modality in the demonstration of the connection of the lesion with the joint space. In this study, we emphasized on the importance of the MRA in the PVNS within Baker's cyst. To the best our knowledge, this is the first report that illustrates the MRA characteristics of a PVNS within Baker's cyst.

A 43-year-old male with history of trauma was admitted to our clinic for the further evaluation of a blunted left costophrenic angle on chest roentgenograms. Computed tomographic (CT) scans demonstrated a crescent, fat-dense, extra-pleural mass on the left lateral hemi-thorax. Vertical funicular densities consistent with blood vessels were identified in this extra-pleural lesion on enhanced CT scans. T1-weighted axial and coronal magnetic resonance images (MRI) disclosed that the omentum ran continuously from the abdominal cavity into thoracic cavity a long left lateral hemi-thorax through a defect in the diaphragm. Surgical exploration revealed the laceration of left diaphragm and left parietal pleura. The omentum was herniated into the left pleural space through small diaphragmatic defect. We report X-ray, CT and MRI features of post-traumatic omental herniation into the pleural space that, to our knowledge it has not yet been reported so far.

Brucellosis is still a public health problem, particularly in developing countries. After the primary infection subsides, a chronic stage characterized by nonspecific manifestations can develop, during which it may not be possible to isolate Brucella organisms and agglutination test titers may or may not be high. We present the case of a 49-year-old man who had only nonspecific symptoms and a 2-month history of a pulsatile painful swelling in his right popliteal region. He had no history of trauma or surgery in that region, but he did ingest unpasteurized milk products. The patient's agglutination test titers were high, and Brucella melitensis was isolated from a bone marrow culture. Color Doppler sonography, T2-weighted MRI, and digital subtraction angiography were performed. Treatment with ultrasound-guided compression of the pseudoaneurysm failed because of high blood flow in its neck. Aneurysmectomy was undertaken, and the excised material was consistent with that from a mycotic pseudoaneurysm. Although both MRI and angiography provided useful information, the color Doppler sonography findings were characteristic of a pseudoaneurysm in the popliteal artery, and only that modality could detect the flow dynamics within the pseudoaneurysm. (C) 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

WOS: 000351769600004, PubMed ID: 25512071, Sarcoidosis is a multisystem inflammatory disease of unknown etiology. The lungs and the lymphoid system are the most commonly involved organs. Extrapulmonary involvement is reported in 30% of patients, and the abdomen is the most common extrapulmonary site with a frequency of 50%-70%. Although intra-abdominal sarcoidosis is usually asymptomatic, its presence may affect the prognosis and treatment options. The lesions are less characteristic and may mimick neoplastic or infectious diseases such as lymphoma, diffuse metastasis, and granulomatous inflammation. The liver and spleen are the most common abdominal sites of involvement. Sarcoidosis of the gastrointestinal system, pancreas, and kidneys are extremely rare. Adenopathy which is most commonly found in the porta hepatis, exudative ascites, and multiple granulomatous nodules studding the peritoneum are the reported manifestations of abdominal sarcoidosis. Since abdominal sarcoidosis is less common and long-standing, unrecognized disease can result in significant morbidity and mortality. Imaging contributes to diagnosis and management of intra-abdominal sarcoidosis. In this report we reviewed the cross-sectional imaging findings of hepatobiliary, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary sarcoidosis.

[No abstract available]

With the exception of hemangioma, benign or malignant primary mesenchymal tumors of the liver are seldom encountered. The aim of this review was to discuss the clinical, histopathological, and imaging features of liver hemangiomas (cavernous, capillary, and sclerosed types), liver lipoma, angiomyolipoma, mesenchymal hamartoma, neurofibroma, infantile hemangioendothelioma, epithelioid hemangioendothelioma, myofibroblastoma, angiosarcoma, malignant fibrous histiocytoma, undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma, and nested stromal tumor. In most of these rare liver tumors, radiological findings obtained by cross-sectional imaging may reflect the characteristic pathologic features required for differential diagnosis; however, definitive diagnosis should be confirmed using histopathological examination.

Early diagnosis of brucellar spondylodiscitis is often difficult because of the long latent period. Radiographs of the spine, bone scan, and computed tomography (CT) scan provide insufficient data. Among 25 patients with brucellar spondylodiscitis studied by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), 9 were in the acute stage and 16 were in the chronic stage. MRI is the investigation method of choice in diagnosing brucellar spondylodiscitis.

In addition to color and pulsed Doppler sonography findings, we aimed to describe power Doppler sonography findings in Graves’ disease in this study. Twenty-three patients with Graves’ disease were imaged with gray-scale, color and power Doppler sonography. Twenty normal volunteers were examined by the same equipment and the same technique as a control group. A subjective grading system was used to categorize the vascularization in pulsed Doppler sonography images from normal to markedly increased vascularization. Power Doppler sonography exhibited diffuse hypervascularity in the thyroid gland in all patients. The flow was covering about all the parenchyma. Four patients showed mild, 12 patients moderate and seven patients marked vascularity. The intensity of power Doppler flow pattern was not correlated with the severity of the disease. This study demonstrated that power Doppler sonography is a convenient, time saving, inexpensive and noninvasive method as compared with isotope scan and some other laboratory tests for confirmation of Graves’ disease.

Epithelioid angiomyolipoma (E-AML), accounting for 8% of renal angiomyolipoma, is usually associated with tuberous sclerosis (TS) and demonstrates aggressive behavior. E-AML is macroscopically seen as a large infiltrative necrotic tumor with occasional extension into renal vein and/or inferior vena cava. However, without history of TS, renal sinus and venous invasion E-AML would be a challenging diagnosis, which may lead radiologists to misinterpret it as a renal cell carcinoma (RCC). In this case presentation, we aimed to report cross-sectional imaging findings of two cases diagnosed as E-AML and pathological correlation of these aforementioned masses mimicking RCC.

Persistent trigeminal artery (PTA) is a relatively frequent type of carotid-basilar anastomosis. Most of PTA has no symptoms and are noticed incidentally. We report a case of PTA compressing the right side pituitary gland, in a patient with hormonal disorder. In this report, we emphasize importance of MR imaging and MR angiography on demonstrating the relationship between the pituitary gland and PTA.

We report a case of an 8-year-old child with traumatic carotico-cavernous fistula. The diagnosis was obtained by magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic resonance angiography and Doppler imaging and the fistula treated by percutaneous embolisation. We emphasize the duplex Doppler findings of superior ophtalmic vein in this study.

Background/Aims. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) alone and UDCA plus domperidone on dissolution of solitary or multiple gallstones.Methods. Fifty-three patients with cholesterol gallstones were randomized into three treatment groups: group I () was given UDCA (15 mg/kg/day) alone and group II () was treated with domperidone (30 mg/day) in addition to UDCA. The control group () was followed without a medical treatment. Gallbladder volumes and ejection fractions were measured sonographically in all patients before and after treatment.Results. After 12 months of treatment, stone dissolution was found in 9 (40.9%) of the patients in group I and 7 (38.8%) of the patients in group II. The difference was statistically significant compared to controls in both treatment groups () but the two groups did not show a difference between each other (). All the patients that achieved dissolution had multiple gallstones except for one patient with a solitary stone in group I. Neither monotherapy of UDCA nor the combination with domperidone affected the ejection fraction of gallbladder.Conclusions. Combination with domperidone did not potentiate the efficacy of UDCA. It has been observed that both UDCA alone and UDCA plus domperidone treatment did not affect ejection fraction of gallbladder.

Renal transplant patients are more prone to tuberculosis infection due to the underlying intense immunosuppression, with an incidence 20–74 times higher than that in the general population. It is associated with graft dysfunction and increased mortality rates. It can be frequently pulmonary but extra-pulmonary involvement is not rare, and in the latter case, it may be misinterpreted as genital malignancies. In this case report, we discuss a renal transplant patient with pelvic pain and fever, who was later diagnosed as having abdominopelvic tuberculosis.

To assess the treatment response of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after transarterial chemoembolization with diffusion-weighted imaging and dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) imaging with a 3-T system.Between February 2010 and November 2010, 74 patients were treated with chemoembolization in our interventional radiology unit. Twenty-two patients (29%) who had liver MR imaging including diffusion and dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging on a 3-T system before and after transarterial chemoembolization were evaluated retrospectively. Tumor size, arterial enhancement, venous washout, and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of lesions, peritumoral parenchyma, normal liver parenchyma, and spleen were recorded before and after treatment. The significance of differences between ADC values of responding and nonresponding lesions was calculated.The study included 77 HCC lesions (mean diameter, 31.4 mm) in 20 patients. There was no significant reduction in mean tumor diameter after treatment. Reduction in tumor enhancement in the arterial phase was statistically significant (P = .01). Tumor ADC value increased from 1.10 × 10(-3) mm(2)/s to 1.27 × 10(-3) mm(2)/s after treatment (P.01), whereas the ADC values for liver and spleen remained unchanged. ADC values from cellular parts of the tumor and necrotic areas also increased after treatment. However, pretreatment ADC values were not reliable to identify responding lesions according to the results of receiver operating characteristic analysis.After transarterial chemoembolization, responding HCC lesions exhibited decreases in arterial enhancement and increases in ADC values in cellular and necrotic areas. Pretreatment ADC values were not predictive of response to chemoembolization.

We aimed to determine the degree and extent of parenchymal abnormalities on pulmo-CT in patients with emphysema. The study group consisted of 29 patients (18 male, 11 female; mean age 57.9+/-13). The diagnosis was based on clinical symptoms, pulmonary function tests (PFT) values, and chest CT findings. All of the patients CT scans were obtained during suspended deep inspiration from the apices to the costophrenic angles. The mean lung attenuation (MLD) and parenchymal abnormalities related to emphysema were quantitatively calculated with tables, histograms and graphics at the whole lung. The lung density measurements revealed a mean density of -898.48+/-51.37 HU in patients with emphysema and -825.1+/-25.5 HU in control group. In addition, mean percentage of subthreshold attenuation values was found as 12.03+/-15.75 and 1.07+/-0.83 in patients with emphysema and control group, respectively. Compared with control group, the patients with emphysema had a significantly lower inspiratory MLD (p

Mathematical relation between metatarsals and between phalanges in terms of their lengths and widths in themselves is considered to be significant with respect to its functional and aesthetic roles. The objective of this study is to conduct measurements for determining lengths and widths of metatarsals and phalanges on the foot radiographs and to determine possible mathematical correlations between metatarsals themselves and between phalanges themselves in terms of their lengths and widths. Anteroposterior right and left foot radiographs were taken from 100 volunteers (50 men and 50 women). Lengths and widths of the metatarsals and phalanges were measured in millimeter on radiographs. The mean, minimum and maximum values, and standard deviations of each bone's length and width were studied and data were put into formulation. The results were evaluated by Regression statistical test, and the relation between metatarsals and between phalanges in terms of their lengths and widths was studied. As a result of the measurements, we found fixed proportions between metatarsals in themselves and between phalanges in themselves in terms of their lengths and widths. Knowing these morphometric relations may be useful for performing any surgical procedures designed to manage any defects or imperfections of the foot, chief among them is shortness.

Objective: Assessed the usefulness of virtual cystoscopy performed with multidetector computed tomography (CT) inpatients with different urinary bladder pathologies compared to the conventional cystoscopy.Materials and Methods: Eighteen patients with different bladder pathologies, which consisted of 11 tumors, 3 diverticula,2 trabecular changes and 2 stones, were assessed with conventional cystoscopy and virtual CT cystoscopy. The results ofvirtual CT cystoscopy were compared with the findings of conventional cystoscopy. We determined the detection rate andpositive predictive value of CT imaging based virtual cystoscopy in the diagnosis of urinary bladder lesions.Results: CT scanning was well tolerated by all patients, and no complications occurred. Images in 16 (88%) of the 18virtual cystoscopic examinations were either of excellent or good quality. All tumors except one, 2 trabecular changes and2 stones were characterized with similar findings in the both of methods. The masses ranged from 0.4 to 7.0 cm in diameter.While conventional cystoscopy could not evaluate interior part of the diverticulum, virtual CT cystoscopy could demon-strate clearly within it. There were no false-positive findings in our series.Conclusion: Virtual CT cystoscopy is a promising technique to be used in the detection of bladder lesions. It should beconsidered especially at the evaluation of bladder diverticula. In the future, it may be possible or even advantageous toincorporate into the imaging algorithm for evaluation of bladder lesion.Key words: bladder; cystoscopy; tomography, spiral computed; tumors; diverticula; stonesInt Braz J Urol. 2006; 32: 147-54

Pseudoaneurysm of the thoracic aorta is a rare condition and usually occurs following blunt trauma. It is almost fatal in the absence of prompt surgical treatment. We describe the case of a 56-year-old male suffering from intermittent non-massive hemoptysis, mild dysphagia, and atypical chest pain for 1 month who has no history of trauma. A saccular aneurysm at the aortic arch between left common carotid artery and left subclavian artery was diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging. Intraoperatively, compression of surrounding structures including trachea and esophagus by the aneurysmal sac (6 x 8 cm in diameter) was seen. Pseudoaneurysm adherent to the upper lobe of the left lung was resected and entire aortic arch replacement with a prosthetic graft was performed. Postoperative course was uneventful and neither specific changes on histologic examination nor any evidence of infection could be detected.

Pheochromocytomas and functioning paragangliomas are rare tumors arising from the primitive neural crest. Approximately 10% of adrenal pheochromocytomas are malignant. Malignant pheochromocytomas usually recur in the retroperitoneum or appear as metastatic deposits in bone, lung, or liver. Here, we report a 51-year-old woman with malignant pheochromocytoma with a peritoneal metastasis, which is a very unusual metastatic site. She was referred to the hospital with headache, abdominal pain, and ileus. A right adrenal mass was surgically removed in May 1997. Pathologic examination revealed pheochromocytoma and capsular with adjacent muscle invasion. During the next 3 years, the patient remained well. The disease recurred in 2001, with hypertensive episodes and peritonitis carcinomatosa. Further investigation revealed no other metastatic sites. Peritoneal metastasis is very rare in malignant pheochromocytoma and generally is attributed to direct peritoneal seeding during surgery.

Diagnosis of liver infestation by Echinococcus alveolaris (EA) is based on serological and radiological findings. In this report, we present a 15-year-old girl with atypical hepatic EA infestation showing central punctate calcifications and contrast enhancement on the portal and late phases of CT and MRI. CT showed a hypodense mass involving more than half of the liver with prominent central calcifications. MRI revealed hypointense signal of the infiltrative mass on both T1- and T2-weighted images. Contrast enhancement is a unique finding in hepatic EA infestation that may cause difficulties with diagnosis. MRI may provide invaluable information in the diagnosis of EA infestation of the liver, either by disclosing the infiltrative pattern of infestation without significant effect to vascular structures, or by the signal characteristics.

In patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), thromboembolism and pulmonary hypertension are the most common pulmonary manifestations. Thrombotic obstruction at the level of the main and/or proximal pulmonary arteries is rare. We report a 40-year-old woman without any history of previous arterial and/or venous thrombosis who presented with severe dyspnea and was found to have pulmonary hypertension and positivity for anticardiolipin antibodies. Computed tomography revealed pulmonary truncus thrombosis extending to both right and left pulmonary arteries. The patient and her family refused surgical treatment. She had a prolonged hospital course, was unresponsive to thrombolytic, anticoagulant, antiplatelet, and immunosuppressive treatments, and died of right ventricle and respiratory failure 5 weeks later. This is the first reported case with thrombosis of pulmonary truncus and main pulmonary arteries concurrent with APS.

We report ultrasound‐guided direct percutaneous injection of n‐butyl cyanoacrylate for preoperative embolization of carotid body tumor in a 50‐year‐old patient. Angiographic road map assistance was used for protection of parent arteries during the injection. After embolization, complete devascularization of the tumor was achieved without complications. The tumor was removed surgically with minimal blood loss. This procedure is effective and promising for preoperative embolization of carotid body tumors.

Thyroid carcinoma and benign thyroid diseases associated with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) may cause difficulties in the diagnosis, localization and therapy of PHPT. In this study, we analysed coexistent thyroid pathologies in 51 patients who underwent neck exploration with a diagnosis of PHPT between 1999--2002. Five hundred thirteen patients who underwent thyroidectomy for nodular thyroid disease without a parathyroid pathology in histopathological examination served as controls. In patients with PHPT there were 43 cases (84.3%) of coexistent thyroid pathology. Nine patients (17.6 %) had coexistent papillary thyroid cancer. Nine patients (17.6 %) had lymphocytic thyroiditis, two (3.9%) had benign thyroid adenoma and 24 (47%) had nodular hyperplasia. In one patient (2%), there was intrathyroidal metastasis from a parathyroid cancer. One patient had coexistent lymphocytic thyroiditis and multifocal papillary cancer. One of the two cases with thyroid adenomas was Hürthle cell type. In the control group only 28 patients (5.5%) had thyroid malignancy (27 papillary cancer and one follicular cancer). In conclusion, the coexistent thyroid pathologies are highly prevalent in patients with PHPT and pre- and intra-operative thyroid examination should be performed to avoid overlooking important thyroid pathologies.

We report a case of painless synovial chondromatosis with an extremely large mass at the popliteal area related to the right knee joint. A hard mass at the posterior aspect of the knee was the only complaint reported by the patient. Plain X-ray studies revealed punctuated calcifications both intra-articularly and around the knee joint. With the surgical procedure performed subsequently, multiple rocky-hard giant chondroid nodules were excised from the posterior aspect of the knee. After 9 months following the surgery, the patient had full range of motion, and no complaints. We emphasize on the importance this case because these lesions may simulate tumors, and lead to misdiagnosis.

Sheehan’s syndrome (postpartum pituitary necrosis) is possibly the most common cause of anterior pituitary insufficiency in developing countries. Hypopituitarism caused by necrosis of physiologically enlarged pituitary gland of pregnancy following postpartum hemorrhage was first described by Sheehan [1]. Classically, it presents with failure of lactation, rapid breast involution, amenorrhea, loss of pubic or axillary hair, skin depigmentation, hypopituitarism and hypoadrenalism [1]. But the pituitary necrosis accompanying Sheehan’s syndrome is not always complete and in some patients there may be selective loss of hormone secretion [2]. Thus, subsequent pregnancy may be possible if gonadotropin function is preserved [3]. Here, we report a 38-year-old woman with Sheehan’s syndrome who became pregnant with a successful outcome.

Extraskeletal Ewing's sarcoma is often described as a tumour involving the soft tissues of the lower extremities and the paravertebral region. Involvement of the paranasal sinus is a very rare entity. We present a case of primary Ewing's sarcoma of the paranasal sinus extending into the middle cranial fossa in a 40-year-old female. CT and MRI findings of this unusual case are discussed. To our knowledge, this case is the first to be reported with CT and MRI documentation.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic efficacy conventional MRI and MR arthrography (MRA) in the diagnosis of chondromalacia patella (CP) on a low-field open magnet system (LFOMS), correlated with arthroscopy. Subjects and methods: Forty-two patients (50 knees) with pain in the anterior part of the knee were prospectively examined with LFOMS, including T1-weighted, proton density-weighted and T2-weighted sequences. All were also examined T1-weighted MRI after intraarticular injection of dilue gadopentetate dimeglumine. Two observers, who reached a consensus interpretation, evaluated each imaging technique independently. Thirty-six of the 50 facets examined had chondromalacia shown by arthroscopy, which was used as the standard of reference. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of each imaging technique in the diagnosis of each stage of CP were determined and compared by using the McNemar two-tailed analysis. Results: Arthroscopy showed that 16 facets were normal. Four (30%) of 13 grade 1 lesions were detected with T1. Four lesions (30%) with T2 and three lesions (23%) with proton-weighted images were detected. Seven (53%) of 13 grade 1 lesions were detected with MRA. Grade 2 abnormalities were diagnosed in two (33%) of six facets with proton density-weighted pulse sequences, two (33%) of six facets with T1-weighted pulse sequences, in three (50%) of six facets with T2-weighted pulse sequences, in five (83%) of six facets with MRA sequences. Grade 3 abnormalities were diagnosed in three (71%) of seven facets with proton density- and T1-weighted images, five (71%) of seven facets with T2-weighted pulse sequences, six (85%) of seven facets with MRA sequences. Grade 4 CP was detected with equal sensitivity with T1-, proton density- and T2-weighted pulse sequences, all showing seven (87%) of the eight lesions. MRA again showed these findings in all eight patients. All imaging techniques were insensitive to grade 1 lesions and highly sensitive to grade 4 lesion, so that no significant difference among the techniques could be shown. Conclusion: All imaging technique studied had high specificity and accuracy in the detection and grading of CP; however, MRA was more sensitive than T1-weighted and proton density-weighted MR imaging on a LFOMS. Although the arthrographic techniques were not significantly better than T2-weighted imaging, the number of false-positive diagnosis was greatest with T2-weighted MRI. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine the increase in diaphragmatic excursion of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) treated with theophylline by MR-fluoroscopy which is an innovative method to demonstrate effectiveness of this treatment. Materials and methods: Investigations were performed on a 0.3 T open MR unit. MR-fluoroscopy images of 30 patients with COPD were obtained before and after theophylline treatment. Diaphragmatic movement values were recorded for evaluation. Results: The response of the diaphragmatic movement in COPD patients treated with theophylline was evaluated by MR-fluoroscopy and an increase of 48% in diaphragmatic contractility was determined after the treatment. The increase in contractility was found to be parallel with respiratory function tests and clinical status. Conclusion: Diaphragmatic movement and response to the medical therapy in patients with COPD can be evaluated by MR-fluoroscopy method which can allow accurate measurements. (C) 2003 Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Malignant fibrous histiocytoma occurs most commonly in the extremities and trunk, but rarely in the visceral organs. Malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the small intestine is an extremely rare condition. To our knowledge, only ten cases of primary tumors involving the small intestine have been described up to now. Among them only one case has been reported to lead to intussusception. This case report documents the appearance of a storiform-pleomorphic type primary malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the ileum, which led to intussusception, in a 58-year-old man with a 3-month history of dyspepsia, weight loss, general fatigue, and nonspecific abdominal pain. The patient was well with no sign of disease at 8 months after surgery. The clinical and pathologic characteristics of malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the small intestine as found in the literature are also reviewed.