Parenchymal density changes in acute pulmonary embolism: Can quantitative CT be a diagnostic tool? A preliminary study

Abstract

Purpose: Determine the ability of quantitative CT (QCT) in defining parenchymal density changes in acute pulmonary embolism (PE). Material & methods: Mean lung density (MLD) and percentage distribution values (PDV) were calculated in 34 patients suspected of PE using software application based on computerized volumetric anatomical segmentation. Results: Total, left, and right MLD differed significantly between emboli positive(n = 23) and negative(n = 11) groups(p < 0.006, p < 0.009, p < 0.014). PDVs differed between groups (p < 0.05) except for LUZ and RLZ. When PE was present in lobe &/segment branches, PDVs were significantly lower except RUZ. Conclusion: QCT is a promising application for defining parenchymal density changes in PE revealing potential functional impact of emboli. This preliminary study suggests QCT could provide added value to CTPA in peripheral PE. (C) 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.