Radiological Assessment of Lung Diseases in Patients with COVID-19: (Review Artical)

Document Type : Original Article

Author

KSA, National Guard Health Affairs

Abstract

Abstract
Background: The emergence of COVID-19 in late 2019 led to a global public health emergency. The virus responsible for the infection, SARS-CoV-2, belongs to the beta-coronavi-rus family. The reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test is currently the most reliable method for detect-ing the virus in respiratory samples. Imaging findings of COV-ID-19, particularly in the lungs, have been extensively studied, with chest computed tomography (CT) and X-ray being com-monly used modalities. Other imaging techniques, such as lung ultrasonography and positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT), have also shown promise in assessing COVID-19 patients. Aim of Study: This study aims to explore the functions of current imaging modalities and identify the prevailing radiolog-ical symptoms of COVID-19. Methods: The study involves a review and analysis of ex-isting research on imaging modalities used in COVID-19. The search terms used include COVID-19, radiology, chest X-ray, lung ultrasonography, computed tomography, and positron emission tomography-computed tomography. Results: COVID-19 pneumonia is typically characterized by bilateral and peripheral distribution of ground-glass opac-ities and consolidations in imaging findings. Chest CT and X-ray have been widely used to assess COVID-19 patients and identify relevant radiological features. Lung ultrasonography, a developing method, has demonstrated a strong ability to detect even small changes in the lungs, making it valuable for initial assessment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. PET-CT integration al-lows for precise localization of affected areas and monitoring of treatment outcomes. Conclusion: Current imaging modalities, including chest CT, X-ray, lung ultrasonography, and PET-CT, play important roles in the assessment and management of COVID-19 pa-tients. These modalities provide valuable information about the radiological manifestations of the disease, aiding in diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment evaluation.

Keywords