Role of Multidetector Computed Tomography in Differentiation of Benign and Malignant Cavitary Lung Lesions With a Histopathological Correlation: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction Cavitary lung disease has a wide range of differential diagnoses, which include both benign and malignant lesions. Imaging differentiation of benign from malignant cavitary lesions has always been a challenge due to overlapping imaging findings. The present study describes the most accurate multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) findings that could help in differentiating benign from malignant conditions in correlation with the histopathological reports. Methods This retrospective study was carried out on diagnosed cases of cavitary lung lesions on MDCT from January 2022 to February 2023. We evaluated the number of cavitary lung lesions, their location with respect to lung segment/lobe, the maximum diameter of the largest lesion, the maximum wall thickness of the largest cavity, and additional findings associated with these lesions. Measurements of the maximum wall thickness were plotted on a graph. Statistical analysis was done, and a receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was calculated to find the accurate cut-off wall thickness for malignant and non-malignant lesions. These findings were then correlated with the histopathological report. Results A review of the MDCT scans of 47 patients was done; 30 (63.8%) of those were male with a mean age of 47.93±14.68 (SD) years while 17 (36.2%) were female with a mean age of 52.53 ±18.38 (SD) years. Out of 47 patients, 27 (57.4%) had benign lesions and 20 (42.5%) had malignant lesions. Significant differences (p<0.05) were found between benign and malignant lesions while comparing the averages of maximum wall thickness (8.1 mm and 14.5 mm, respectively) and the irregular inner margin of the largest cavitary lesions. The presence of consolidation and centrilobular nodules correlated significantly (p<0.05) with the benign nature of cavitary lung lesions. The maximum cut-off wall thickness was <6 mm and >17 mm for the differentiation of benign from malignant lung lesions, respectively. Conclusions The maximum wall thickness and irregular inner margin of cavitary lung lesions was a good indicator for the differentiation of benign and malignant etiologies on MDCT while consolidation and centrilobular nodules favoured the benign etiology more.

Utility of High-Resolution Ultrasonography in the Evaluation of Posterior Segment Ocular Lesions Using Sensitivity and Specificity.

Background: High-resolution Ultrasound (USG) provides good anatomical details of the ocular posterior segment and depicts the various pathological conditions affecting the ocular posterior segment, which helps ophthalmologists for choosing the best treatment options. This study aims to evaluate the utility of High-resolution Ultrasonography in the Evaluation of Posterior Segment Ocular lesions by using Sensitivity and Specificity. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based retrospective study enrolled 81 patients in a tertiary care hospital. Clinical and ophthalmological examinations were performed followed by USG of the orbits. B-mode USG was done with a 7.5-13 MHz linear probe. The final diagnosis was made by correlating the USG findings with clinical and ophthalmological examinations. Statistical analysis: Sensitivity, specificity, the positive predictive value, the negative predictive value, and the accuracy of B-scan USG were compared with the ophthalmological findings by using the Chi-square test. Results: Of 81 patients (n=48 males and n=33 females) with a mean age of 38.98 ± 16.48 [SD] years, posterior segment ocular lesions in association with cataracts were found in 27 (33.3%) patients, whereas 14 (51.9%) patients had posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), 10 (37%) patients had retinal detachment (RD), and 1 (3.7%) patient had choroidal detachment (CD). Posterior segment ocular pathologies were found in 17 (21%) patients with blunt ocular injuries, whereas 8 (47.1%) patients had PVD, 4 (23.5%) patients had RD and 4 (23.5%) patients had CD. The ocular USG had a sensitivity of 87.32%, specificity of 80%, and accuracy of 86.42% with a statistically significant difference between the USG findings and the Ophthalmology diagnosis of the posterior segment ocular abnormalities of a p-value of 0.0005. Conclusion: High-resolution ultrasound is one of the best and an easily available imaging modality for the evaluation of posterior segment ocular pathologies, especially in the presence of opaque ocular media.

Added-Value of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) and Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced (DCE-MRI) Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Preoperative Assessment of Cervical Cancer.

Purpose: To evaluate the added-value of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) in the preoperative assessment of carcinoma cervix. Methods: This prospective study was carried out on histopathologically proven 45 patients of carcinoma cervix presented to a tertiary care hospital with bleeding per vagina between August 2017 and July 2018. Relevant local per vaginal examination and MRI examination of the pelvis were performed. Results: A total of 45 patients with carcinoma of the cervix, having 11 patients (24.4%) in Stage-I, 22 patients (48.9%) in Stage-II, 3 patients (6.7%) in Stage-III and 9 patients (20%) in stage-IV, were included in this study sample. The mean ADC value of the carcinoma of cervix was 0.802 ± 0.123 [SD] × 10-3 mm2/s. The stage-I carcinoma cervix had a mean ADC value of 0.915 ± 0.109 [SD] × 10-3 mm2/s, Stage-II 0.778 ± 0.099 [SD] × 10-3 mm2/s, Stage-III 0.762 ± 0.123 [SD] × 10-3 mm2/s and Stage-IV 0.737 ± 0.116 [SD] × 10-3 mm2/s. ROC curve analysis showed the percentage of signal intensity changes within cervical tumor on arterial phase of DCE-MRI had a threshold value of 42.25 in differentiating Stage-I carcinoma of cervix from other stages with a sensitivity of 81.8% and specificity of 44.1%. Conclusion: The DWI and DCE-MRI added valuable inputs over conventional MR sequences in the early diagnosis and preoperative staging of carcinoma cervix. DCE-MRI had a high accuracy for assessing the cervical stromal and parametrial invasions, which helps in selecting the optimal therapeutic protocol and prognostication in gynecological malignancies.

The Utility of Biliary Manometry in Assessing Early Catheter Removal After Percutaneous Balloon Dilatation of Hepaticojejunostomy Strictures.

Background and objective Percutaneous balloon dilatation followed by long-term internal-external biliary catheter (IEBC) placement is the standard radiological management for postoperative hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) strictures. The treatment is considered successful when cholangiography shows a free flow of contrast across the anastomosis and the patient passes a "clinical test". However, these tests may not be suitable predictors of long-term successful treatment outcomes. The purpose of this study was to assess the utility of biliary manometry in the evaluation of successful treatment outcomes after HJ stricture dilatation and IEBC placement and its efficacy as a tool for early catheter removal. Patients and methods A total of 14 patients underwent percutaneous balloon dilatation of HJ strictures with IEBC placement. A two-to-three-month interval was maintained between sessions of exchanging or upsizing IEBCs. Biliary manometry was performed after a mean duration of 6.3 months. Intra-biliary pressure of <15 mmHg was considered as the success threshold. Results Among the 14 patients, 11 patients passed initial manometry and had their IEBCs removed and were followed up for a mean duration of 47.8 months. Of these, one patient developed biliary obstruction after six months and underwent repeat HJ stricture dilatation and long-term IEBC placement. Three patients failed manometry and underwent re-dilatation of HJ strictures with IEBC placement. Using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, the probability of patients remaining stricture-free after HJ stricture dilatation was found to be 100% at three months and 91% at six, 12, 18, 24, 36, and 47.8 months. Conclusion Biliary manometry prevents subjective variations in determining treatment endpoints and helps to assess early catheter removal after percutaneous balloon dilatation of HJ strictures.

'Phenytoin: Shepherd or Wolf in Disguise? Phenytoin-Induced Neurotoxicity: A Case Series.

Phenytoin is a commonly used antiepileptic drug for various types of seizure disorders except for absent seizures. Long-term dose-dependent neurological side effects of phenytoin therapy include cerebellar atrophy, cerebral atrophy, and brain stem atrophy. Skull hyperostosis, gum hypertrophy, and megaloblastic anemia are other known effects of long-term therapy. We present four cases depicting clinical and neuroimaging findings of phenytoin-induced toxicity.

Role of MRI in Differentiating Various Posterior Cranial Fossa Space-Occupying Lesions Using Sensitivity and Specificity: A Prospective Study.

BACKGROUND: Any abnormal space-occupying posterior fossa lesion may directly involve the vital structures like the brain stem, cranial nerves, cerebellum, vertebrobasilar artery, and venous sinuses, which makes the surgical approach and total excision very difficult. Hence for these reasons, precise evaluation of posterior fossa lesion with MRI is a must to visualize the vital structures, which helps in planning and safe surgery.  Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the added value of diffusion-weighted imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the localization, extension, characterization, differentiation of various posterior fossa space-occupying lesions, and correlating with the histopathological result. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective study comprised of 40 patients who were suspected with posterior fossa space-occupying lesions on basis of clinical features or on CT scan. All patients were evaluated using conventional as well as newer MRI techniques using Siemens 1.5 Tesla MRI scanner (Siemens Medical System, Erlangen, Germany). Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) was done in all patients and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was done in 27 patients. Based on the MRI findings, various posterior fossa lesions were classified as neoplastic or non-neoplastic. The neoplastic lesions were further classified as benign and malignant. The MRI findings were correlated with histopathological findings or follow-up. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Independent sample t-test was used to compare the mean apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of various posterior fossa space-occupying lesions. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was done to determine the optimal cut-off mean ADC values and choline/creatinine (Cho/cr) ratios for various benign and malignant posterior fossa tumors. RESULTS: Of 40 patients with posterior fossa lesions, 23 were males and 17 were females with a mean age of 34.67±1.93[SD] years. Metastases were the most common posterior fossa lesions in our study sample and found in seven patients (17.5%) followed by vestibular schwannomas and brainstem gliomas in five patients (12.5%) each, demyelinating lesion in four patients (10%), tubercular abscess in three patients (7.5%), hemangioblastoma, tuberculoma, arachnoid cyst, epidermoid cyst, pilocytic astrocytoma, low-grade glioma in two patients (5%) each, meningioma, medulloblastoma, pyogenic abscess and high-grade glioma in one patient (2.5%) each. The mean ADC value of benign tumors was higher than that of malignant tumors and this difference was found to be significant (p = 0.019). The cut-off ADC value 1.022 x 10-3mm2/s had a sensitivity of 78.6% and specificity of 66.7%. MRS played important role in differentiating neoplastic from non-neoplastic lesions and benign from malignant tumors. The cut-off Cho/cr ratio of 1.25 had a sensitivity of 66.7%, specificity of 85.7% to differentiate benign from malignant tumors. CONCLUSION: Conventional MRI sequences able to diagnose most of the benign-appearing lesions of posterior fossa, however, adding advanced MRI sequences like diffusion-weighted imaging and MR spectroscopy helps us to differentiate and diagnose various posterior fossa lesions even closer to the actual histopathological diagnosis.

Role of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging in the Evaluation of Perianal Fistulae.

Background Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the imaging modality of choice for evaluating perianal fistulae, due to its ability to show the relationship of perianal fistulae with anal sphincters, fistula extensions, secondary ramifications and associated complications. Aim To evaluate the role of diffusion-weighted MRI in the evaluation of perianal fistulae. Settings and Design A hospital-based cross-sectional study. Materials and Methods The study group composed of 47 patients of perianal fistula. MRI with diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) was performed with Philips 0.5 T Ingenia scanner. DWI with different b -values ( b = 50, b = 400, and b = 800 smm 2 ) were obtained. The MRI findings were correlated with local clinical examination and or surgical findings. Statistical Analysis Used Chi-square test, independent samples t -test, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Result Fifty-nine perianal fistulas in 47 patients were included in the study sample. The visibility of perianal fistula on DWI was less than T2-weighted (T2W) and combined DWI-T2W images. Distinctly visualized (visibility score 2) perianal fistulas were observed in 47 fistulas (79.6%) on DWI, 54 (91.5%) on T2W, and 58 (98.3%) on DWI-T2W images. The mean of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of active fistula was 0.972 ± 0.127 [SD] 10 -3 mm 2 /s and inactive was 1.232 ± 0.185 [SD] 10 -3 mm 2 /s with a significant difference ( p -value < 0.0005). A cut-off mean ADC value of 1.105 × 10 -3 mm 2 /s was used to differentiate active from the inactive fistula with a sensitivity of 87.5% and specificity of 73.3%. Conclusion Combined DWI-T2W evaluation had a better performance in the detection of fistula than DWI or T2W alone. DWI with mean ADC calculation had a good performance in differentiating active from the inactive fistulas.

Normative magnetic resonance imaging measurements of orbital structures in pediatric population of North-Eastern India: A retrospective cross-sectional study.

Purpose: The people of Northeast India comprise mostly of Mongoloid descent with characteristic craniofacial features. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the normal orbital structures with MRI and determine normative data in the Northeast Indian pediatric population. Methods: MRI images of the 302 orbits of 151 pediatric patients below 16 years of age were retrospectively evaluated to measure the various orbital structures. Both axial and coronal MRI images were utilized for various orbital measurements. An independent sample t-test was done to compare various orbital data according to the sex and side. Linear regression was also done. Results: The mean age of the pediatric population was 9.64 ± 1.47 years with a male: Female ratio of 1.13:1. The mean interzygomatic line was 88.4 ± 9.09 mm and the interorbital line was 22.18 ± 3.62 mm. The mean thicknesses of medial, lateral, superior, and inferior recti muscles were 2.58 ± 0.46, 2.34 ± 0.42, 2.16 ± 0.40, and 2.53 ± 0.49 mm in males and 2.41 ± 0.41, 2.08 ± 0.34, 2.08 ± 0.46, and 2.46 ± 0.49 mm in females. The mean horizontal orbital, vertical orbital diameters, orbital index, mean volume of eyeball, and orbital cavity were 30.27 ± 2.97,3 7.06 ± 3.57, 122.58 ± 7.39, 4.63 ± 0.84, and 15.29 ± 3.52 in males, while 29.16 ± 3.23, 34.96 ± 3.99,119.96 ± 7.31, 4.49 ± 0.87, and 14.65 ± 3.47 in females, respectively. With an increase in age, the interzygomatic line (r = 0.883, r2 = 0.780; P < 0.0005), anterior medial interorbital line (r = 0.808, r2 = 0.652; P < 0.0005), mean volume of eyeball (r = 0.915, r2 = 0.838; P < 0.0005), orbital cavity (r = 0.924, r2 = 0.854; P < 0.0005), and distance between the optic nerve entry site (r = 0.829, r2 = 0.687; P < 0.0005) were increased. Conclusion: This study provides normative data of various orbital structures in a pediatric population and these data likely to be useful for diagnosing various pediatric orbital disorders and helps in the planning of various surgical procedures of orbits.

Added Value of Three-Plane Multiecho Fast Field Echo MRI Sequence in the Evaluation of Acute Spinal Trauma Using Sensitivity: A Prospective Study.

Background Multiecho fast field echo (mFFE) MRI sequence provides added value to the conventional MR imaging in evaluation of acute spinal trauma, especially for detecting spinal cord hemorrhage which is a best predictor for patient prognosis. Objective This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic efficacies of three-plane mFFE MRI sequence along with the conventional MRI sequences in acute spinal trauma patients using sensitivity.  Materials and methods This prospective study comprised of 48 patients of acute spinal trauma. The neurological deficit of acute spinal trauma patients assessed according to the American Spine Injury Association (ASIA) scale. The correlation between the various MRI findings of acute spinal cord injury and neurological deficits were compared with the Chi-square test. Results Of 48 patients of acute spinal trauma, 36 males and 12 females with a mean age of 38.71±1.42 [SD] years. 22 (45.8%) patients had cord edema with a mean length of was 3.45±5.52 [SD] cm. The mean percentage of spinal canal compromisation was 39.47±25.47 [SD] and spinal cord compression 18.1±24.4 [SD]. There was statistical significance between the ASIA impairment scale and spinal canal compromisation and cord compression with a p-value of 0.0005. Cord hemorrhage observed in 13 (27%), non-hemorrhagic cord contusions in 3 (6.3%), cord transection in 5 (10.4%) and epidural hematoma in 10 (20.8%) patients with an initial high grade of ASIA scale. The visibility score of three-plane mFFE sequence was higher in comparison to the single plane sagittal mFFE and short tau inversion recovery (STIR) sequences. For detection of spinal cord hemorrhage with visibility score of 2, the three-plane mFFE had sensitivity of 77% followed by 38.5% with single plane sagittal mFFE and 7.7% with sagittal STIR images. 26 (54.2%) patients showed neurological improvement in their hospital stay/follow-up period and no improvement observed in 7 (14.6%) patients of acute spinal trauma. Conclusions Application of three-plane mFFE sequences detects more spinal cord hemorrhages and vertebral fractures with a better visibility score as compared to the single sagittal plane mFFE and STIR sequence.

MRI Spectrum of Japanese Encephalitis in Northeast India: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Objective Japanese encephalitis (JE) is an arthropod-borne flavivirus infection having high mortality and morbidity. This study was performed to evaluate the conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in JE and to find out any difference between pediatric and adult JE. Materials and Methods This retrospective study was performed on serologically positive 54 JE patients presented to a tertiary care hospital with acute encephalitic symptoms between April 2016 and October 2019. Relevant neurological examination, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and MRI scan of the brain were performed. Results Fifty-four JE patients ( n = 31 males and n = 23 females) having 32 pediatric and 22 adult JE were included in the study sample. Group 1 JE ( n = 16) patients had encephalitic symptoms with duration less than 15 days up to the day of MRI scan and group 2 JE ( n = 38) had symptoms more than 15 days. Group 1 JE had mean apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value of 0.563 ± 0.109 (standard deviation [SD]) × 10 -3 mm 2 /sec and group 2 JE had 1.095 ± 0.206 (SD) × 10 -3 mm 2 /sec. The mean ADC value of pediatric JE was 0.907 ± 0.336 (SD) × 10 -3 mm 2 /sec and adult JE was 0.982 ± 0.253 (SD) × 10 -3 mm 2 /sec. Conclusion The majority of the JE patient shows abnormal signal alterations in bilateral thalami and substantia nigra. Diffusion-weighted imaging with ADC mapping helps in evaluating the stage of the JE. No statistical significance of the various conventional MRI findings was found between the pediatric JE and adult JE.

Added Value of Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Differentiating Musculoskeletal Tumors Using Sensitivity and Specificity: A Retrospective Study and Review of Literature.

BACKGROUND: Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) provides added value to conventional MRI imaging in diagnosing and differentiating various benign and malignant musculoskeletal tumors. OBJECTIVE: The study aims to evaluate the diagnostic efficacies of diffusion-weighted imaging along with the conventional MRI sequences for differentiating benign and malignant musculoskeletal tumors using sensitivity and specificity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study was carried out on 73 histopathologically proven patients of various musculoskeletal tumors who presented to a tertiary care center between March 2017 to October 2018. Relevant clinical examinations and MRI scan of the requested body part of the musculoskeletal system were performed. Mean apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were calculated in the bone as well as soft tissue tumors after placing uniform-sized region of interest (ROI) in the non-necrotic portion of the tumor. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Independent t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test were used to compare the mean ADC values of the various tumors with the histopathology. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was done to determine the cut-off mean ADC values in the various bone and soft tissue tumors. RESULTS: Of 73 patients with musculoskeletal tumors (benign=20, malignant = 53), 47 patients were bone tumors (benign=12, malignant=35) and 26 patients were soft tissue tumors (benign=eight, malignant=18). Mean ADC value of benign bone tumor was 1.257±0.327[SD] x 10-3mm2/s and malignant was 0.951 ± 0.177[SD] x 10-3mm2/s. The mean ADC value of benign soft tissue tumor was 1.603±0.444[SD] x 10-3mm2/s and malignant was 1.036 ± 0.186[SD] x 10-3mm2/s. The cut-off mean ADC value was 1.058 x 10-3mm2/s for differentiating benign from malignant bone tumor with a sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity of 66.7% and accuracy of 78.7% while the cut-off mean ADC value of 1.198 x 10-3mm2/s for differentiating benign from malignant soft tissue tumors with a sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity of 87.5% and accuracy of 84.6%. CONCLUSIONS: DWI with ADC mapping can be used as an additional reliable tool along with conventional MRI sequences in discriminating benign and malignant musculoskeletal tumors.

Challenges and Outcomes of COVID-19 Positive Neurosurgical Patients: An Institutional Experience With Emphasis on Modifications of Neurosurgical Practice.

INTRODUCTION: There has been a drastic reduction in the number of neurosurgeries performed during the COVID-19 pandemic due to a multitude of challenges prompting restructuring of neurosurgical services. The present study describes the challenges and outcomes of non-elective neurosurgical procedures done on COVID-19 positive patients along with the modifications in neurosurgical practice during the pandemic. METHODS: A retrospective study was done in the Department of Neurosurgery over a period of one year and three months. Demographic and clinical details including outcomes of the COVID-19 positive patients, who had undergone non-elective neurosurgical interventions, were collected. RESULTS: Ten patients (3.8%) were COVID-19 positive out of 262 neurosurgical interventions done. The age of the patients ranged from 5 days to 78 years with five males and five females. Out of the 10 patients, five were neurotrauma cases including one patient of head injury with craniovertebral junction injury. The patient with craniovertebral junction injury underwent foramen magnum decompression with C1 lateral mass-C2 pedicle screw on the right and C0-C2 pedicle screw and rod fixation on the left. The rest of the neurotrauma cases underwent craniotomy or burr-hole craniostomy followed by evacuation. Only one patient (10%) had postoperative 30-day mortality. The rest nine patients (90%) survived the post-operative 30-day mortality. The various modifications incorporated in the neurosurgical practice included categorizing the emergency room into various zones, a separate operating theatre for COVID-19 patients, limiting the number of operating members as well as minor modifications in the operating procedures. CONCLUSIONS: The postoperative surgical outcome is favorable in COVID-19 positive patients with modifications of the existing neurosurgical practices.

Added value of 3D-DRIVE and SWI Magnetic Resonance Imaging Sequences in Intraventricular Neurocysticercosis (IVNCC): An Institutional Experience from Northeast India.

Background: Prompt diagnosis and early treatment institution are important in intraventricular neurocysticercosis (IVNCC) as compared to the parenchymal or racemose form because it is associated with a poorer patient prognosis. Intraventricular neurocysticercosis is often missed on CT scan or conventional cranial magnetic resonance imaging because of similar density or signal intensity of cysticercus lesion with cerebrospinal fluid.Thestudy aims to evaluate the added value of 3D-DRIVE and SWI MRI sequences in isolated intraventricular cysticercosis with acute neurological presentation. Methods and Materials: This retrospective study was carried out on diagnosed 10 patients with isolated intraventricular neurocysticercosis (IVNCC) presented to a tertiary care hospital with an acute onset of symptoms or acute neurological deficit between June 2019 to May 2021. Relevant neurological examination, CSF analysis, a serological test of neurocysticercosis and MRI scan of the brain were performed. Result: Tenpatients of isolated intraventricular neurocysticercosis (3 males and 7 females) having 3 pediatric and 7 adults were included in this study sample.The common neurological complications of the isolated intraventricular neurocysticercosis in this study are observed as obstructive hydrocephalus in 8(80%) patients and ependymitis in 7(70%) patients. IVNCC with distinctly visualized scolex (visibility score 2) identified in 2(20%) patients in T2WI, 8 (80%) patients in 3D-DRIVE and 3(30%) patients in SWI sequences. The cyst wall of IVNCC was distinctly visualized (visibility score 2) in 1(10%) patient in T2WI, 8(80%) patients in 3D-DRIVE and 6(60%) patients in SWI sequence. Conclusion: Heavily T2-weighted steady-state and SWI sequences should be added to routine MRI sequences that helps to identify IVNCC and should be used in patients with unexplained hydrocephalus, especially in endemic regions of Neurocysticercosis.

Magnetic resonance imaging evaluation of posterior spinal tuberculosis: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Isolated posterior spinal (element) tuberculosis (TB) is uncommon compared to classical anterior spinal or para-discal TB. Here, we report magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of posterior spinal TB in 19 patients without involvement of the vertebral body and intervertebral disc. PURPOSE: To evaluate the MRI findings in isolated posterior spinal (element) TB. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Clinical and MRI data of 19 patients of isolated posterior spinal TB were retrospectively evaluated. RESULTS: Of the 19 patients, group A comprised 4 (21%) patients with rapid onset lower limb weakness and pyramidal signs while group B comprised 15 (79%) patients without any neurological deficit. Lumbar vertebrae commonly affected 9 (47.4%) patients followed by dorsal vertebrae in 8 (42.1%) patients and cervical vertebrae in 2 (10.5%) patients. The pedicle was most commonly involved in 12 (63.2%) patients followed by the lamina in 11 (58%) patients, and spinous process and facet joint in 6 (31.6%) patients each. Extra-spinal inflammation/pyomyositis/paraspinal abscess was found in 13 (68.4%) patients followed by epidural abscess 3 (15.8%) patients and both extra spinal inflammation and epidural abscess in 3 (15.8%) patients (15.8%). Compressive cord myelopathy was observed in 4 (21%) patients, where three patients underwent emergency decompression laminectomy and the remaining 16 patients were treated conservatively with anti-tubercular therapy. CONCLUSION: Initial diagnosis of isolated posterior element TB is challenging and requires a high index of suspicion. Early diagnosis of isolated posterior spinal TB is important as early treatment may be beneficial and decreases patient morbidity.

Endovascular Management of Direct Carotid-Cavernous Fistula: Evolution of Cost Effective Sandwich Technique.

Objective There is a direct fistulous connection between the cavernous segment of the internal carotid artery and cavernous sinus in cases of direct carotid-cavernous fistula (CCF). Endovascular embolization is the mainstay of management in this condition. This study is about the evolution of endovascular treatment methods and the development of a cost-effective technique for embolization of direct CCF at a tertiary care center. Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis was performed of all the cases of direct type CCF embolized by endovascular techniques in our department from 2008 to 2018.Clinical follow-up of these patients was done at 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months. Results A total of 45 patients with 40 having a prior history of head trauma were included in this study. All cases were treated with a transarterial route except one which was treated with the transvenous approach. Detachable balloon s were used in 12 (26.67%) patients, only detachable coils in 14 cases (31.11%), both detachable balloons and coils in 9 cases (20%), and both detachable and push coils, that is, sandwich technique in 8 cases (17.78%). Parent arterial occlusion was performed in 10 patients (22.22%). There was complete resolution of chemosis and bruit in all the patients. Conclusion Endovascular treatment is the mainstay of management in direct CCF. Using more fibered thrombogenic coils in a sandwich manner decreases the cost of the treatment significantly.

Glue Embolization of Adrenal Artery Pseudoaneurysm: Case Series with Review of Literature.

Mortality rates for pseudoaneurysm (PSA) rupture are high and immediate intervention in the form of embolization can be life saving for the patient. Adrenal artery PSAs are rare with scarce references in literature. These arteries are small in caliber and require modification of the cannulation techniques for endovascular access. In situations, where the distal artery cannot be cannulated or the ostium cannot be negotiated, and percutaneous direct needle puncture (PDNP) techniques can be used. We discuss two patients with adrenal artery PSA that presented to us and their successful embolization with N-butyl cyanoacrylate through endovascular and PDNP techniques along with relevant review of the literature.

Extra-pituitary Cerebral Anomalies in Pediatric Patients of Ectopic Neurohypophysis: An Uncommon Association.

CONTEXT: Ectopic neurohypophysis (EN) refers to an interrupted, nonvisualized, and thinned out pituitary stalk with ectopic location of the posterior pituitary gland. Concurrent extra-pituitary cerebral and extra-cranial anomalies have been rarely reported in patients of EN. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of extra-pituitary cerebral anomalies in pediatric patients of EN. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care center. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The study group comprised eight pediatric patients of EN associated with extra-pituitary cerebral or vascular anomalies. Clinical and biochemical assessment was done in all patients. RESULTS: Out of the total eight patients with EN, MRI showed interrupted pituitary stalk in five patients (62.5%) and nonvisible pituitary stalk in three patients (37.5%). Ectopic posterior pituitary bright spot was demonstrated in median eminence in six patients (75%), faintly visualized in one patient (12.5%) and nonvisualized in another one patient. Statistical significant association was noted between pituitary gland height and patient's body height with the pituitary gland volume (P < 0.001). Varied extra-pituitary cerebral anomalies encountered in our patients ranged from isolated anomalies such as optic nerve hypoplasia in three patients (37.5%), corpus callosum dysplasia in four patients (50%), agyria-pachygyria complex in two patients (25%), and intracranial vascular anomalies in two patients to syndromic association of tuberous sclerosis in one patient. CONCLUSION: Identifying and reporting of associated extra-pituitary cerebral anomalies in patients with EN are crucial in assessing the overall neurological outcome of such patients.

Characterisation of musculoskeletal tumours by multivoxel proton MR spectroscopy.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the role of multi-voxel proton MR spectroscopy in differentiating benign and malignant musculoskeletal tumours in a more objective way and to correlate the MRS data parameters with histopathology. METHODS AND MATERIALS: A hospital-based prospective study was carried out comprising 42 patients who underwent MRI examinations from 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014. After routine sequences, single-slice multi-voxel proton MR spectroscopy was included at TE-135 using the PRESS sequence. The voxel with the maximum choline/Cr ratio was used for analysis of data in 32 patients. The strength of association between the MR spectroscopy findings and the nature of tumour and histopathological grading were assessed. RESULTS: Of the 42 patients, the MR spectra were not of diagnostic quality in 10. In the remaining 32 patients, 12 (37.5%) had benign and 20 (62.5%) malignant tumours. The mean choline/Cr ratio was 6.97 ± 5.95 (SD) for benign tumours and 25.39 ± 17.72 (SD) for malignant tumours. In our study statistical significance was noted between the choline/Cr ratio and the histological nature of musculoskeletal tumours (p = 0.002) assessed by unpaired t-test. The choline/Cr ratio and histological grading were also found to be significant (p = 0.001) when assessed by one-way ANOVA test. CONCLUSIONS: Multi-voxel MR spectroscopy showed a higher choline/Cr ratio in malignant musculoskeletal tumours than in benign ones (p = 0.002). The choline/Cr ratio and histological grading of musculoskeletal tumours also showed statistical significance (p = 0.001).

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Analysis of Caudal Regression Syndrome and Concomitant Anomalies in Pediatric Patients.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of caudal regression syndrome (CRS) and concomitant anomalies in pediatric patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A hospital-based cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted. The study group comprised 21 pediatric patients presenting to the Departments of Radiodiagnosis and Pediatric Surgery in a tertiary care hospital from May 2011 to April 2016. All patients were initially evaluated clinically followed by MRI. RESULTS: In our study, 21 pediatric patients were diagnosed with sacral agenesis/dysgenesis related to CRS. According to the Pang's classification, 2 (9.5%) patients were Type I, 5 (23.8%) patients were Type III, 7 (33.3%) patients were Type IV, and 7 (33.3%) patients were of Type V CRS. Clinically, 17 (81%) patients presented with urinary incontinence, 6 (28.6%) with fecal incontinence, 9 patients (42.9%) had poor gluteal musculatures and shallow intergluteal cleft, 7 (33.3%) patients had associated subcutaneous mass over spine, and 6 (28.6%) patients presented with distal leg muscle atrophy. MRI showed wedge-shaped conus termination in 5 (23.8%) patients and bulbous conus termination in 3 (14.3%) patients above the L1 vertebral level falling into Group 1 CRS while 7 (33.3%) patients had tethered cord and 6 (28.6%) patients had stretched conus falling into Group 2 CRS. CONCLUSION: MRI is the ideal modality for detailed evaluation of the status of the vertebra, spinal cord, intra- and extra-dural lesions and helps in early diagnosis, detailed preoperative MRI evaluation and assessing concomitant anomalies and guiding further management with early institution of treatment to maximize recovery.

Comparative Evaluation of Ultrasonography and Cross-sectional Imaging in Determining Gall Bladder Perforation in Accordance to Niemeier's Classification.

INTRODUCTION: Gall Bladder (GB) perforation, a rare but dreaded complication of acute cholecystitis and is associated with high mortality rate. Early detection of acute cases of GB perforation reduces the risk of biliary peritonitis and hence the associated mortality and morbidity. AIM: The purpose of the study was to make a comparative evaluation of the role of Cross-sectional imaging in GB perforation with base line investigation like sonography. Finally both modalities were compared in determining the type of perforation according to Niemeier's classification. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated the Ultrasonography (USG), Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imagings (MRI) findings in patients of GB perforation with surgical correlation. RESULTS: We evaluated 17 patients of GB perforations over a time period of one year. USG was done in all patients. As cross-sectional modality only CT scan was done in 14 patients and MRI scan was done in four patients. Both CT and MRI scans were done in one patient. CONCLUSION: Cross-sectional imaging must not be delayed in suspected cases of GB perforations because it helps in establishing a quicker diagnosis, detecting complications and also helps in decision making related to management thereby reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with this condition.