Abnormal Chest X-rays

Functional Imaging Modalities

• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) provides functional information such as rates of metabolism and levels of various other chemical activity.
• PET measures important body functions such as blood flow, oxygen use, and glucose metabolism.
• PET combines anatomy and function knowledge to pinpoint the anatomic location of abnormal metabolic activity.

Ultrasound Modality

• Ultrasound is characterized by bright echoes (white) in hyperechoic/echogenic areas.
• Ultrasound provides outstanding soft tissue contrast.

Nuclear Medicine Modality

• Nuclear Medicine is limited by the availability of radionuclides.

Computed Tomography (CT) Modality

• CT is limited in demonstrating dense bone detail or calcifications.
• CT shows how blood flows to tissues and organs.

Radiation Concerns

• High-dose radiation exposure to the gastrointestinal (GI) system can cause a potential consequence of gastrointestinal syndrome.
• The threshold dose for cerebrovascular syndrome associated with high acute radiation exposure is 6000-8000 rads.
• The latency period for the onset of symptoms after high-dose radiation exposure to the GI system is 1-2 weeks.
• The survival rate after high-dose radiation exposure to the GI system is 0-10%.
• Cerebrovascular syndrome is associated with high acute radiation exposure, which can cause symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, and seizures.
• The mechanism of cerebrovascular syndrome is the damage of blood vessels in the brain.

Contrast Media Extravasation

• The extravasation of contrast media can occur due to fragile or friable vessels.
• The potential risk of contrast media extravasation in perforated intestinal tracts is peritonitis.
• Clinical history and physical exam findings that may indicate perforation include abdominal tenderness, guarding, and rebound.
• Obtaining complete history and physical examination results from the patient helps to identify potential risks and consequences of contrast media extravasation.
• The main concern when extravasation of contrast media occurs is the risk of an allergic reaction, nephrotoxicity, or cardiac arrhythmias.
• Possible consequences of wrong placement of contrast media during a CT scan include tissue necrosis, nerve damage, and compartment syndrome.
• A preliminary abdominal x-ray is important in assessing perforation to rule out free air in the abdominal cavity.

Fetal Radiation Exposure

• The potential risk of fetal radiation exposure is a concern, with a threshold dose of 10-20 rads to result in death or gross malformations.
• The potential risk of fetal radiation exposure in relation to cancer is a concern, with an increased risk of childhood cancer.