Imaging Shows Bird Flu Characteristics

Jul 26, 2013

With the help of medical imaging, researchers have identified unique characteristics in patients infected with the newest strain of bird flu, according to a study published in Radiology.

Chest radiographs and computed tomography scans revealed common radiologic findings that may help physicians diagnose H7N9, a subtype of bird flu. The first human outbreak of the deadly, pneumonia-causing virus was reported in China in March 2013.  

Two radiologists reviewed clinical data and medical imaging scans from nine male and three female patients who presented with pneumonia symptoms like a fever, cough, shortness of breath, white phlegm and loss of strength. All patients underwent chest radiography and thin-section CT as an initial exam, with chest x-rays taken every one or two days to monitor disease progression and treatment response.

The study revealed that H7N9 is characterized by ground-glass opacities, air bronchograms, interlobular septal thickening with right lower lobe predominance, and rapidly progressive changes in the lungs and pulmonary connective tissues. Less commonly occurring patterns included centrilobular nodules, reticulations, cystic changes, bronchial dilation and subpleural linear opacities.

According to researchers, the severity of medical imaging findings mirrored the severity of the virus. Researchers suggest that medical imaging could be a crucial aid in the early diagnosis of H7N9

Source:http://www.asrt.org