What question did this study set out to answer?

To prospectively evaluate and compare the diagnostic performance of low-dose versus standard-dose unenhanced multi-detector row CT in patients suspected of having acute appendicitis.

July 1, 2004Radiology

Acute Appendicitis: Comparison of Low-Dose and Standard-Dose Unenhanced Multi–Detector Row CT

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Authors

CKCaroline KeyzerUniversité Libre de Bruxelles DTDenis TackEpicura VMViviane De MaertelaerUniversité Libre de Bruxelles

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Implication

Prospective comparative study reveals equivalent diagnostic accuracy between low-dose and standard-dose unenhanced CT in suspected appendicitis, indicating potential to reduce radiation exposure.

Key Points

To prospectively evaluate and compare the diagnostic performance of low-dose versus standard-dose unenhanced multi-detector row CT in patients suspected of having acute appendicitis.
Enrolled 95 consecutive patients suspected of having acute appendicitis who each underwent two unenhanced multi-detector row CT scans: low-dose (30 effective mAs) and standard-dose (100 effective mAs) at 120 kVp and 4 x 2.5-mm collimation.
Two independent radiologists interpreted images across two sessions to assess appendiceal signs and propose diagnoses, which were confirmed against surgical findings (n = 37) or clinical follow-up.
Among 29 confirmed appendicitis cases, overall diagnostic accuracy was not significantly different between low-dose and standard-dose protocols (P = .788), with similar visualization rates (P = .874) and mean diameter measurements (P = .101–.696).
Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value did not differ by radiation dose; appendiceal diameter, appendicolith presence, and fat stranding correctly predicted approximately 90% of diagnoses at both dose levels.

Cite This Study

Keyzer et al. (2004) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a7ca6225b4bb365cc610ea9 https://doi.org/10.1148/radiol.2321031115

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Implication

Prospective comparative study reveals equivalent diagnostic accuracy between low-dose and standard-dose unenhanced CT in suspected appendicitis, indicating potential to reduce radiation exposure.

Acute Appendicitis: Comparison of Low-Dose and Standard-Dose Unenhanced Multi–Detector Row CT

Discussion

Member takes

Implication

Key Points

Cite This Study

Acute Appendicitis: Comparison of Low-Dose and Standard-Dose Unenhanced Multi–Detector Row CT

Discussion

Member takes

Implication

Key Points

Cite This Study

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