Dear AuntMinnie Members,
The radiology community is responding rapidly to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, bringing new resources to bear on the rapidly spreading contagion.
Earlier this past week, an expert panel from six institutions published a list of best practices for radiology facilities to adopt in preparation for more cases of COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by SARS-CoV-2. Our coverage of the article was the most-read story of the week on AuntMinnie.com.
One of the most useful tools for diagnosing COVID-19 is CT. Researchers from Japan reported on their experiences scanning passengers on the Diamond Princess cruise ship, which was docked off Yokohama for two weeks in February -- an action that allowed SARS-CoV-2 to spread among passengers and crew members.
But CT isn't the only useful tool for COVID-19. A group from China found that ultrasound of the lung was useful in tracking changes that might have been caused by the virus, and the team shared some of the things to look for in a new article.
Artificial intelligence (AI) also is being employed in the fight. A research group has shared its work in developing an AI system based on 2D and 3D deep-learning algorithms for analyzing thoracic CT scans of patients suspected of having COVID-19.
And finally, the American College of Radiology has published a list of radiology-specific resources for dealing with the coronavirus pandemic while protecting patients and healthcare providers.
As the number of COVID-19 cases surges around the world, radiology professionals are doing their part in the battle. Stay prepared and stay safe.
