Diagnostic Reading #11: Five “Must Read” Articles on Medical Imaging
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The impact of COVID-19 on radiology dominates headlines.
This week’s articles in Diagnostic Reading include: ACR releases COVID-19 guidance; managing radiology staff during the COVID-19 outbreak; ABR cancels exams; WBCT may better detect osteoarthritis; PET scans identify brain inflammation in veterans.
ACR releases CT and chest X-ray guidance amid COVID-19 pandemic – Diagnostic Imaging
The American College of Radiology (ACR) released official guidance for radiologists facing the expanding COVID-19 pandemic, outlining the radiologic evidence surrounding the virus as well as how radiologists can best use imaging with potential cases. The ACR—which already deems chest CT “usually not appropriate” for acute respiratory illness—recommended providers and health systems adhere to guidance by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). According to the CDC, even if a chest CT or X-ray suggests COVID-19, viral testing is the only specific method for diagnosis.
4 ways radiology leaders must manage staff differently during the coronavirus outbreak – Radiology Business
Much of the attention in radiology information during the recent COVID-19 outbreak has focused on imaging findings and infection control measures. However, leaders must not lose sight of the “people” aspect of their response as this situation continues to unfold, according to an article in the American Journal of Roentgenology. The authors emphasized that radiologist managers cannot overlook the importance of their staff, ensuring that they’re not becoming burned out during these stressful times. The article offers four steps that radiology departments can take to keep an eye on their people during response efforts.
Weight-bearing CT scans may be the future of osteoarthritis treatment – Axis Imaging News
Conventional X-rays often fall short at identifying new cases of osteoarthritis, and by the time the disease is evident in the images, the case is already advanced. However, weight-bearing CT scans (WBCT)—which captures 3D images while the patient is standing—can yield more detailed images of how joints flex and shift as they work. Researchers now believe WBCT may be useful at catching signs of developing osteoarthritis earlier. Read more articles on weight-bearing CT.
American Board of Radiology canceling exams in response to coronavirus outbreak – Radiology Business
Leadership with the American Board of Radiology (ABR) has decided to cancel upcoming physician testing amid growing concerns about COVID-19. In particular, the doc-certification board said it’s postponing both the diagnostic radiology and radioisotope safety exams scheduled for early April in Tucson, Arizona, and those slated for that testing will be moved to the fall round of exams at no penalty. Those with questions can contact the board at information@theabr.org and regular updates are posted at theabr.org.
PET scans identify brain inflammation in veterans with Gulf War Illness – Diagnostic Imaging
Veterans diagnosed with Gulf War Illness (GWI) have significantly higher elevations of brain inflammation than other individuals—a finding that could support treating neuroinflammation as a potential therapeutic target. These soldiers experience neuroinflammation in areas of the brain that are responsible for executive functions, including memory, concentration and reasoning, according to a study published in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity. GWI affects approximately 30 percent of soldiers who served during the 1991 Gulf War.
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