Dear X-Ray Insider,
Whether the avian flu will be a pandemic or just another flash in the pan remains to be seen. But radiologists are certain that x-ray plays an important part in diagnosing this deadly disease. In a report from the 2005 RSNA meeting in Chicago, Dr. Nagmi Qureshi discussed the key x-ray features, both viral and bacterial, of avian flu. To read more, click here.
Our Insider Exclusive also originates from the RSNA meeting. But unlike in bird flu, U.K. investigators found that x-ray was not especially useful when performed immediately after thoracentesis. Radiographs are routinely taken to check for possible complications, yet the low diagnostic yield of the test makes it more trouble than it's worth, according to the group. Click here for the details.
Finally, we have several articles on osteoporosis and osteoarthritis (OA). First, a lifetime health benefits analysis determined that screening with bone densitometry is cost-effective regardless of a person's age. On a more technical note, a study out of France suggested that a pelvic view x-ray, interpreted by a single reader, yielded the best results for measuring joint space in OA.
Last but not least, learn about the latest advances in DEXA, as well as the future of this modality, in a lecture given at the 2005 California Society of Radiologic Technologists meeting.
