Dixie J. Aronberg

High resolution computed tomography in the staging of carcinoma of the larynx

The normal anatomy of the larynx as displayed on computed tomography is illustrated. Pathological alterations in patients with carcinoma of the larynx are depicted and discussed.

Evaluation of abdominal abscess with computed tomography.

Computed tomography (CT) is valuable in providing a specific diagnosis of abdominal abscess and in determining its site and extent. Computed tomography is also capable of excluding an abscess with a high degree of certainty. In 31 of 34 patients with proven abdominal abscess. CT suggested the correct diagnosis and accurately defined the extent of involvement. In nine patients, the CT findings were specific for abscess. The CT appearance of abscess is diverse, largely depending on its location. The most common appearance is a low density mass often with higher density at the periphery. The presence of gas distributed within the mass or an extraalimentary air—fluid level allows an extremely confident diagnosis of abscess. Differential diagnostic possibilities are reviewed with emphasis on interpretive problems.

Superior diaphragmatic lymph nodes: CT assessment.

The normal CT appearance of the superior diaphragmatic (also called cardiophrenic angle or pericardial) lymph node group was assessed in 39 adult patients who were free of diseases known to involve lymph nodes. In 15 patients there were 27 ovoid opacities, corresponding to known lymph node sites, namely in the anterior portion of the diaphragm; all except one opacity measured <5 mm in diameter. Superior diaphragmatic lymph nodes ≥6 mm in diameter were observed in 30 of 190 patients with diseases known to be associated with lymphadenopathy. All but one of these patients had a pathologically proven malignant neoplasm, with bronchogenic carcinoma the most common etiology.

High CT attenuation values of a benign pulmonary nodule.

Computed tomography (CT) is thought to be a reliable predictor of the benignancy of pulmonary nodules when high attenuation values can be demonstrated. However, the cause of increased attenuation has not been proven. A pulmonary nodule evaluated initially by CT and subsequently followed for 4 years has developed central calcification by conventional tomography. This observation supports the contention that elevated CT attenuation values are the result of microscopic calcification.