Detecting Anemia in Pediatrics by unenhanced thoracic Computed Tomography Scan

Abstract Background The present study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of subjective and objective criteria for diagnosing anemia on an unenhanced thoracic CT scan in infants and children. Results A total of 281 subjects were included in the study. The prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe anemia in the participants was 34 (12.1%), 126 (44.8%), and 14 (5%) individuals, respectively. Additionally, 104 (37%) cases represented the aortic rim sign, and 79 (28.1%) represented the interventricular septum sign. The interventricular septum sign presented 35.05% of sensitivity and 83% specificity, while the aortic rim sign indicated 41.37% and 69.81% of sensitivity and specificity, respectively. Conclusion It is possible to detect anemia from an unenhanced chest CT scan. Both objective and subjective criteria show values of sensitivity and specificity; however, in some cases, it would not be reliable. Additionally, a chest CT scan would be more accurate in detecting severe anemia.