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Biomedical subjects

S A Sohaib

Publications and source records attributed to S A Sohaib.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

Recurrent endometrial cancer: patterns of recurrent disease and assessment of prognosis.

AIM: To evaluate patterns of disease and identify factors predicting outcome in patients presenting with recurrent endometrial adenocarcinoma following primary surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of the imaging and clinical data in 86 patients (median age 66 years, range 42-88 years) presenting with recurrent endometrial adenocarcinoma following primary surgery. RESULTS: Following primary surgery recurrent disease occurred within 2 years in 64% and within 3 years in 87%. Relapse was seen within lymph nodes in 41 (46%), the vagina in 36 (42%) the peritoneum in 24 (28%) and the lung in 21 (24%). Unusual sites of disease included spleen, pancreas, rectum, muscle and brain. Univariate survival analysis showed the factors significant for poor outcome were: multiple sites of disease, liver and splenic disease, haematogenous, peritoneal and nodal spread, poorly differentiated tumour, and early relapse. The presence of disease within the vagina, bladder or lung was not associated with poor prognosis. Multivariate analysis identified multiple sites of disease, liver and splenic metastases to be independent predictors of poor outcome. CONCLUSION: The most frequently observed sites of relapse are: lymph nodes, vagina, peritoneum and lung. Significant predictors of poor outcome in recurrent disease are multiple sites of disease and liver and splenic metastases.

Adenocarcinoma↗

Imaging of testicular germ cell tumours.

In testicular germ cell tumour (GCT), imaging plays a central role in assessment of tumour bulk, sites of metastases, monitoring response to therapy, surgical planning and accurate assessment of disease at relapse. The primary modality used for imaging patients with GCT is computed tomography (CT) but plain film radiography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) may all have roles to play. This article reviews the role of imaging of testicular germ cell tumours.

Humans↗

Distribution of lymph nodes in men with prostatic adenocarcinoma and lymphadenopathy at presentation: a retrospective radiological review and implications for prostate and pelvis radiotherapy.

AIMS: To describe the distribution of enlarged lymph nodes by nodal group found radiologically in patients presenting with adenocarcinoma of the prostate. This will help to define which nodal groups should be treated during the pelvic radiotherapy of patients with less advanced disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The scans of 55 men presenting with prostate cancer and metastases to lymph nodes only were reviewed. Lymph nodes of 8 mm or more in size were considered to be enlarged. RESULTS: The medial external iliac (obturator) nodes were most commonly enlarged (75% of patients) followed by nodes in the para-aortic region (26%) and anterior internal iliac region (24%). Para-aortic lymph-node enlargement was uncommon in the absence of pelvic lymphadenopathy. Midline pre-sacral lymph-node enlargement was not observed. Incidence of enlarged lymph nodes in the lateral external iliac group was 18%, an area which may not be routinely included during radiotherapy. CONCLUSION: There is a case for studying further the role of including lateral external iliac lymph nodes in the pelvic radiotherapy volume, as there may be an appreciable risk of lymph-node spread to this area.

Adenocarcinoma↗

Imaging of endometrial adenocarcinoma.

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecological malignancy and the incidence rising. Prognosis depends on age of patient, histological grade, depth of myometrial invasion and cervical invasion and lymph node metastases. Myometrial invasion and accurate cervical involvement cannot be predicted clinically. Pre-treatment knowledge of these criteria is advantageous in order to plan treatment. The clinical challenge is to effectively select patients at risk of relapse for more radical treatment whilst avoiding over treating low risk cases. This is important as endometrial cancer predominately occurs in postmenopausal women with co-morbidities. Modern imaging provides important tools in the accurate pre-treatment assessment of endometrial cancer and may optimize treatment planning. However, there is little consensus to date on imaging in the routine preoperative assessment of endometrial carcinoma and practice varies amongst many gynaecologists. Transvaginal ultrasound is often the initial imaging examination for women with uterine bleeding. However, once the diagnosis of endometrial cancer has been made, contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides the best assessment of the disease. The results of contrast-enhanced MRI may identify patients who need more aggressive therapy and referral to a cancer centre. In this article we review the role of imaging in the diagnosis and staging/preoperative assessment of endometrial carcinoma.

Adenocarcinoma↗

Advanced imaging applied to radiotherapy planning in head and neck cancer: a clinical review.

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma represents an ideal model to investigate the application of recent advances in medical imaging to radiotherapy planning. Tumours usually remain localized, and are potentially curable with local radiation. The steep radiation dose-response relationships support the strategies of radiation dose escalation to increase local control. Two-dimensional simulator-based planning and CT planning have significant drawbacks in terms of accurate target volume definition. MRI has enhanced soft tissue delineation, but has to be fused with CT to allow dose calculation. Functional imaging using dynamic contrast enhanced CT or MRI sequences may allow improved knowledge of tumour function. Positron emission tomography (PET) may allow further physiological information to be determined. This review summarizes the current techniques in clinical development in this area.

Carcinoma, Squamous Cell↗

Imaging functional adrenal disorders.

Technological developments in cross-sectional imaging have revolutionized the localization and characterization of functioning adrenal pathology. With effective use of modern imaging, the diagnosis of the cause and nature of functioning adrenal pathology can be reached speedily, accurately and efficiently in the majority of patients. We review the appearance of primary and secondary adrenal pathology, evaluate the diagnostic performance of imaging modalities, highlight newer technical developments, and propose a rational use of these tests in identifying functioning adrenal disease.

Adrenal Gland Diseases↗

The role of magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound in patients with adnexal masses.

AIMS: To evaluate the accuracy of ultrasonography (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in characterizing adnexal masses, and to determine which patients may benefit from MRI. METHODS: We prospectively studied 72 women (mean age 53 years, range 19 to 86 years) with clinically suspected adnexal masses. A single experienced sonographer performed transabdominal and transvaginal greyscale spectral and colour Doppler examinations. MRI was carried out on a 1.5T system using T1, T2 and fat-suppressed T1-weighted sequences before and after intravenous injection of gadolinium. The adnexal masses were categorized as benign or malignant without knowledge of clinical details, according to the imaging features which were compared with the surgical and pathological findings. RESULTS: For characterizing lesions as malignant, the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of MRI were 96.6%, 83.7% and 88.9%, respectively, and of US were 100%, 39.5% and 63.9%, respectively. MRI was more specific (p<0.05) than US. Both MRI and US correctly diagnosed 17 (24%) cases with benign and 28 (39%) cases with malignant masses. MRI correctly diagnosed 19 (26%) cases with benign lesion(s), which on US were thought to be malignant. The age, menopausal status and CA-125 levels in these women made benign disease likely, but US features were suggestive of malignancy (large masses and solid-cystic lesions with nodules). CONCLUSION: MRI is more specific and accurate than US and Doppler assessment for characterizing adnexal masses. Women who clinically have a relatively low risk of malignancy but who have complex sonographic features may benefit from MRI.

Adnexal Diseases↗

Diagnostic performance of CT versus MR in detecting aldosterone-producing adenoma in primary hyperaldosteronism (Conn's syndrome).

The aim of the present study is to compare the diagnostic performance of CT and MR imaging in detecting aldosterone-producing adenoma and to compare the interobserver variability in the detection of an aldosterone-producing adenoma on CT and MR. A retrospective study of 34 patients with primary hyperaldosteronism was performed. A total of 17 cases of aldosterone-producing adenoma and 17 cases of bilateral adrenal hyperplasia were included. The final diagnosis of an adenoma was made by surgery with histological confirmation, whereas that of bilateral adrenal hyperplasia was made on adrenal venous sampling or a good biochemical and clinical response following medical treatment alone and in the absence of a unilateral radiological abnormality. The CT (n=30) and MR (n=24) scans were reviewed independently by two radiologists experienced in adrenal imaging, who were unaware of the cause of the primary hyperaldosteronism. The diagnostic performances of both observers in detecting an aldosterone-producing adenoma on CT and MR imaging were compared. The 16 adenomatous nodules that were detected on imaging ranged from 1 to 4.75 cm in diameter. The calculated sensitivity and specificity for detecting aldosterone-producing adenoma were 87 and 93% for one observer and 85 and 82% for the other observer on CT, and 83 and 83% for one observer and 92 and 92% for the other observer on MR, respectively. Receptor operating characteristics curve analysis showed similar performances of both observers in detecting an aldosterone-producing adenoma on CT and MR imaging. There was good interobserver agreement on CT (k=0.71) and on MR (k=0.67). We have demonstrated comparable diagnostic performance and good interobserver agreement on CT and MR imaging for the detection of aldosterone-producing adenoma.

Adenoma↗

Hepatic steatosis in Cushing's syndrome: a radiological assessment using computed tomography.

OBJECTIVE: Hepatic steatosis may occur in association with insulin resistance and obesity, two features commonly seen in Cushing's syndrome (CS). The aim of this report is to assess the prevalence of hepatic steatosis in patients with active CS using computed tomography (CT) and to identify any associations between hepatic steatosis, endocrine and biochemical variables and body fat distribution. PATIENTS AND MEASUREMENTS: We identified 50 patients with active CS in whom appropriate CT was available to allow measurement of liver and spleen attenuation. In 26 patients, abdominal fat measurements were also available. Serum markers of CS and liver function tests were recorded. RESULTS: Ten of 50 patients had a liver-to-spleen CT attenuation ratio (L/S) of less than 1, indicating hepatic steatosis. There was a significant negative correlation between both liver attenuation and L/S ratio with total abdominal fat area, visceral fat area, the percentage of visceral fat and the visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio; the strongest negative correlation was found between visceral fat area and L/S ratio (r=-0.638, P<0.001, n=26). L/S ratio positively correlated with alkaline phosphatase levels (r=+0.423, P=0.044, n=23) but with no other serum marker of CS activity or liver enzyme. CONCLUSIONS: We have demonstrated hepatic steatosis on CT in 20% of patients with active CS. The presence of hepatic steatosis was significantly correlated with total abdominal fat area and visceral fat area.

Adipose Tissue↗

Computed tomography assessment of fat distribution in male and female patients with Cushing's syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: Our aims were to describe the abdominal fat distribution in male patients with Cushing's syndrome (CS) on computerised tomography (CT), to compare our findings with non-cushingoid patients, to validate previous reports of increased visceral fat in female patients with CS and to identify any correlations between fat distribution and biochemical findings. DESIGN: Retrospective and observational. PATIENTS: Appropriate CT scans were identified in 31 patients (seven male) with active CS. MEASUREMENTS: Total, visceral and subcutaneous fat areas were obtained. The percentage of visceral fat and the visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio (V:S ratio) were calculated. Biochemical data were recorded. Control data of fat distribution were obtained from the literature. RESULTS: There was a significant increase in the V:S ratio in male patients with CS when compared with non-cushingoid controls (1.175+/-0.59 vs 0.77+/-0.39, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.0817-0.728). There was a significant increase in the V:S ratio in female patients with CS (0.845+/-0.53 vs 0.38+/-0.19, 95% CI 0.269-0.661). There was no difference in the V:S ratio between male and female patients with CS (1.175+/-0.59 vs 0.845+/-0.53, 95% CI -0.144-0.804). No significant correlations between fat distribution and glucose levels, circulating cortisol, ACTH or lipids were found. CONCLUSIONS: Our data demonstrate an increase in visceral fat distribution in both male and female patients with CS, with the abolition of the normal male to female difference in visceral fat. Increased visceral fat may increase the risk of the metabolic syndrome in this group of patients.

Abdomen↗

CT of primary hyperaldosteronism (Conn's syndrome): the value of measuring the adrenal gland.

OBJECTIVE: The objectives of our study of patients with primary hyperaldosteronism (Conn's syndrome) were to determine whether the adrenal glands are larger in patients with bilateral adrenal hyperplasia than in those with aldosterone-producing adenomas or in healthy control subjects; and whether a CT criterion based on adrenal gland size can be developed to positively diagnose bilateral adrenal hyperplasia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study of CT scans of 28 patients with primary hyperaldosteronism was performed. The means of two observers' measurements of adrenal gland size were recorded and compared with published normal values. In addition, a radiologist experienced in adrenal imaging and unaware of the cause of the primary hyperaldosteronism diagnosed either bilateral adrenal hyperplasia or aldosterone-producing adenoma by visual inspection. RESULTS: The adrenal glands in patients with bilateral adrenal hyperplasia were significantly (p < 0.05) larger than those in patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma or in healthy control subjects. A sensitivity of 100% was achieved when a mean limb width of greater than 3 mm was used to diagnose bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, and a specificity of 100% was achieved when the mean limb width was 5 mm or greater. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the overall performance of the radiologist and the mean adrenal limb width in detecting bilateral adrenal hyperplasia were equivalent. CONCLUSION: In patients with primary hyperaldosteronism, adrenal limb measurements on CT can aid in differentiating bilateral adrenal hyperplasia from aldosterone-producing adenoma because the adrenal glands in bilateral adrenal hyperplasia are larger.

Adrenal Glands↗

The effect of decreasing mAs on image quality and patient dose in sinus CT.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of reducing mAs on the diagnostic quality of images and the radiation dose to the orbits in patients undergoing sinus CT. We studied 40 consecutive patients undergoing paranasal sinus CT for inflammatory disease prior to functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). Four groups of 10 patients were scanned at 200 mAs, 150 mAs, 100 mAs and 50 mAs, respectively. Orbital radiation dose was measured using thermoluminescent dosemeters. Images were reviewed independently by two observers who were unaware of the mAs setting used. Image quality was evaluated using a semi-quantitative scoring system for six anatomical structures. The osteomeatal complex, uncinate process, infundibulum, frontal recess, middle turbinate and optic nerve were assessed as: clearly demonstrated (2 points); demonstrated but not clearly visualized (1 point); or not seen (0 points). No significant difference was shown between any of the four groups in terms of image quality according to the scoring system used in this study. Mean radiation dose to the orbit was reduced by 77%, from 13.5 mGy at 200 mAs to 3.1 mGy at 50 mAs (p<0.05). CT of the sinuses can be performed in patients prior to FESS at greatly reduced mAs without loss of diagnostic quality of the images. This is important in reducing the radiation dose to the lens.

Analysis of Variance↗

MRI of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours.

Neuroendocrine tumours of the pancreas are rare and are frequently difficult to demonstrate. Several imaging modalities have been used to demonstrate these tumours, but recent reports have suggested that MRI may have an important role in their localization. We review the spectrum of MRI appearances of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours.

Adenoma, Islet Cell↗

MR imaging of uterine sarcomas.

OBJECTIVE: The MR imaging appearances of uterine sarcomas are not well described in the literature. We describe the MR imaging features of uterine sarcomas. MATERIALS AND METHODS: MR images from all patients with histologically proven uterine sarcomas scanned between 1993 and 2000 were reviewed. Tumor size, its relationship to the uterus, signal characteristics, and enhancement pattern after IV injection of gadolinium were noted. RESULTS: Twenty-five scans from 22 patients were reviewed. Findings from the scans included 11 leiomyosarcomas, five mixed müllerian tumors, two rhabdosarcomas, and four endometrial stromal sarcomas. Two patterns of disease were observed, including a characteristic large heterogenous pelvic mass (n = 17) and an endometrial mass indistinguishable from endometrial carcinoma (n = 8). On T2-weighted images, the large masses were characteristically of low or intermediate background signal intensity with pockets of very high T2 signal. The areas of high T2 signal corresponded to cystic necrosis in the tumor. Pockets of high T1-weighted signal corresponded to hemorrhage. Gadolinium enhancement was present in the solid components of all tumors. This pattern was observed in all recurrent sarcomas. Some correlation was shown between the histologic subtypes and the MR imaging appearances. CONCLUSION: Uterine sarcomas show two patterns on MR imaging. The most common presentation is a large heterogenous mass. However, sarcomas can mimic endometrial carcinoma.

Adult↗

The pathology of median neuropathy in acromegaly.

BACKGROUND: Median neuropathy is commonly associated with acromegaly, although its pathology is uncertain. OBJECTIVE: To study the pathology of median neuropathy in acromegaly by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). DESIGN: Case series. SETTINGS: Outpatient clinic and MRI unit. PATIENTS: Nine patients with acromegaly, four of whom had clinical symptoms of neuropathy. MEASUREMENTS: At presentation and 6 months after treatment, median nerve size, its signal intensity, and the volume of the carpal tunnel contents were measured. RESULTS: At presentation, patients with symptoms of neuropathy had increased nerve size and signal intensity compared with asymptomatic patients, but the two groups did not differ in volume of carpal tunnel contents. These measures improved with treatment of acromegaly in symptomatic patients; asymptomatic patients experienced no change or worsening. CONCLUSION: The predominant pathology of median neuropathy in acromegaly seems to be increased edema of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel rather than extrinsic compression from increased volume of the carpal tunnel contents.

Acromegaly↗

Adrenal imaging.

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Adrenal Gland Diseases↗

Radiological and clinicopathological features of orbital xanthogranuloma.

BACKGROUND: Orbital xanthogranuloma, a diagnosis confirmed histologically, occurs rarely in adults and children. With its characteristic macroscopic appearance the adult form may be associated with a spectrum of biochemical and haematological abnormalities including lymphoproliferative malignancies. METHOD: The clinicopathological features and imaging appearances on computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of this condition are described in eight adults and a child. RESULTS: Radiological evidence of proptosis was present in seven patients. In all nine patients an abnormal infiltrative soft tissue mass was seen, with increased fat in six cases. All patients had associated enlargement of extraocular muscles suggestive of infiltration and five had lacrimal gland involvement. Encasement of the optic nerve, bone destruction, and intracranial extension was present only in the child with juvenile xanthogranuloma. Haematological and/or biochemical abnormalities were detected in seven patients and seven patients had other systemic diseases which were considered to have an immune basis. One patient subsequently developed non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. CONCLUSION: The investigation and management of orbital xanthogranulomas requires a multidisciplinary approach even though the diagnosis may be suspected clinically. Imaging delineates the extent of disease and involvement of local structures and may influence the differential diagnosis. The juvenile form may be more locally aggressive, causing bone destruction with consequent intracranial extension.

Adult↗