Multiparametric dual-energy Computed Tomography in the diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma patients and its correlation with tissue Ki-67 expression level

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the variations in quantitative analysis of lung adenocarcinoma based on gender using dual-energy Computed Tomography (DECT), as well as its correlation with Ki-67, a proliferative marker. Methodology: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 79 patients diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, categorized into two groups based on gender. These patients underwent dual-energy CT scans, and the corresponding Ki-67 index was obtained. The study involved statistical analysis of general clinical characteristics, conventional chest imaging features, and dual-energy quantitative iodine values of the lung cancer patients in each gender group. Additionally, correlation analysis was performed to assess the relationship between the statistically significant parameters and Ki-67. Results: A significant disparity was observed in the values of virtual non-contrast (VNC) and Ki-67 between male and female patients with lung adenocarcinoma. Notably, male patients exhibited lower iodine concentration and a smaller increase in iodine value. Several quantitative iodine parameters showed a correlation with Ki-67. Among these parameters, OVERLAYVP exhibited the strongest correlation. Distinct quantitative iodine parameters were identified for male and female lung adenocarcinoma patients, which exhibited a correlation with Ki-67, thereby facilitating the evaluation of the proliferative activity of lung adenocarcinoma. Conclusion: Dual-energy quantitative iodine parameters in lung adenocarcinoma patients exhibited gender-specific variations.