Helen T. Morehouse

Hematuria secondary to left peripelvic and gonadal vein varices

The nutcracker syndrome refers to compression of the left renal vein between the aorta and superior mesenteric artery which results in renal vein and left gonadal vein varices. This is an unusual but well accepted cause of hematuria. We report a case of the nutcracker syndrome and present the radiologic workup including computerized tomography (CT) and renal venography with venous pressure measurements.

CT appearance in tuberculous pancreatic abscess

We report a case of a tuberculous pancreatic abscess in a 47-year-old human immunodeficiency virus positive intravenous drug abuser. She had a prolonged febrile course and persistent abdominal pain. On CT and sonography the lesion lacked the usual ancillary features of an abscess such as diffuse pancreatic enlargement and a peripancreatic fluid collection, and more closely resembled a necrotic neoplasm.

Comparison of computed tomography and contrast enema evaluation of diverticulitis

A total of 31 patients with diverticulitis were analyzed who had both computed tomography and contrast enema. There was almost equal sensitivity to abnormality of approximately 90 percent. Contrast enema produced a specific diagnosis of diverticulitis in 61 percent, using stringent positive criteria, and an additional 29 percent with suggestive findings. Comparative computed tomography specific diagnoses in those 31 cases was made in 65 percent, and suggestive in 23 percent. Computed tomography was particularly useful diagnostically in cases of retrograde obstruction on contrast enema. The authors conclude that contrast enema should be the primary mode of approach, while computed tomography can be a valuable follow-up when the diagnosis is still in doubt, or if it is possible that patient management might be altered by additional information.

Right ureteral obstruction associated with pancreatitis

In a 5-year review of 207 patients with acute pancreatitis examined by computed tomography, 124 (60%) had findings consistent with active (acute or acute superimposed on chronic) pancreatitis. Six patients (3%), in addition to having evidence for pancreatitis, had associated mild to moderate right hydronephrosis and proximal hydroureter. These patients’ findings are presented with a discussion of the renal manifestations of pancreatitis.

Isodense splenic mass: hamartoma, a case report

Hamartoma of the spleen is a very rare, benign tumor. A case report of an isodense mass on computed tomography, both before and after intravenous contrast administration is illustrated. The mass was well demonstrated on sonography and nuclear medicine scans. This benign mass may be missed on routine computed tomography.

Hydatid disease of kidney

A case of hydatid infestation of the kidney is presented. The natural history of the disease, the diagnostic workup including computerized tomography, and treatment are reviewed.

Malignant paragangliomas of the retroperitoneum: Value of computed tomography and angiography

Four patients with malignant paragangliomas of the retroperitoneum were examined by computed tomography. Angiography was performed in two patients. Computed tomography guided the surgeon in obtaining a biopsy and in considering the possibility of resection. Angiography demonstrated the vascular supply and vascularity of the tumours. Pathological correlation was made.

CT findings in intracranial neurosarcoid

Abstract The CT findings in two cases of neurosarcoid are presented. We feel CT features are specific enough to diagnose central nervous system involvement in patients who have sarcoid calcification, and peripheral leptomeningeal involvement is described for the first time.

Magnetic resonance imaging of dissection in pseudocoarctation of the aorta

Two patients with pseudocoarctation complicated by dissection are presented. They are the first cases in which pseudocoarctation with dissection have been imaged by magnetic resonance (MR). MR imaging is an excellent noninvasive modality in the evaluation of dissection in pseudocoarctation of the aorta.

Neurofibrosarcomas in neurofibromatosis: Role of CT scanning and angiography

Four patients with neurofibromatosis complicated by neurofibrosarcomas are presented. Computed tomography (CT) and angiography demonstrated the extent and vascularity of these sarcomas and was helpful in planning surgical resection, and as a guide to the site of biopsy. Surgical and pathological correlation was made.