Researchers have identified a new brain marker that may help diagnose Alzheimer's disease earlier, using fMRI to monitor changes in brain activation and deactivation. The study found that impaired deactivation in the posteromedial cortices was closely related to memory impairment and neuropsychological testing scores.
A study using MR spectroscopy with MRI has successfully identified breast cancers in non-mass enhancing lesions without invasive biopsies. By measuring choline compounds, MR spectroscopy provides specific and sensitive results, reducing the need for unnecessary biopsies.
Researchers have identified a new abnormality related to disease progression and disability in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The study found that T1-weighted MR images of the brains of MS patients often depict bright areas called hyperintense lesions, which were more likely to be present in patients with secondary-progressive MS.
A multicenter study compared screening methods in high-risk women, finding that MRI accurately identifies tumors missed by mammography and ultrasound. The study suggests that women at high risk for breast cancer can benefit from undergoing screening MRI to detect more cancers.
Researchers found structural and functional abnormalities in specific brain regions associated with chronic auditory hallucinations in schizophrenic patients. The study used MRI to identify biological markers for treatment and monitor patient response.
MDCT angiography is highly accurate in depicting intracranial aneurysms, outperforming digital subtraction angiography (DSA) in diagnostic accuracy. The technique can quickly determine the possibility of using minimally invasive treatment rather than open surgery.
Researchers found that following ultrasound diagnosis of probably benign breast masses is a safe alternative to biopsy for stable masses. The study showed an overall negative predictive value of 99.8%, indicating only 0.2% risk of cancer development.
A study published in Radiology found that MDCT can aid forensics teams in determining if a person has drowned by demonstrating airway froth and sediment. The procedure may provide support for the diagnosis of drowning when other causes have been excluded.
A study published in Radiology found that MRI can predict full or partial recovery of patients with acute spinal cord injuries by assessing MR images within 48 hours. The severity of MSCC, bleeding, and cord swelling are key indicators of a poor prognosis, while their absence indicates a good chance for neurological recovery.
A multicenter clinical trial found that magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS) effectively shrinks uterine fibroids and significantly relieves symptoms in women. The optimized protocol allowed treatment of a greater fibroid volume, resulting in even greater symptomatic relief.
A new study shows radiofrequency ablation effective for early-stage, inoperable lung cancer, achieving survival rates equal to or better than traditional external beam radiation. The treatment resulted in a 57% five-year survival rate and controlled tumor progression.
A lung cancer screening regimen has been found to identify patients with early-stage cancer, allowing for curative treatment. The study suggests that annual repeat screenings can detect lung cancer at its earliest stage, resulting in a high proportion of patients having no evidence of metastases.
Using adult bone marrow stem cells, researchers successfully regenerated healthy liver tissue in patients, doubling the liver growth rate and allowing for earlier surgical resection. This therapy has potential as a treatment for regenerating livers damaged by other chronic and acute diseases.
A new study uses MRI to measure intra-abdominal fat, a type of fat that can predispose children to adult diseases like heart disease and diabetes. The study found strong correlations between single-slice MRI measurements and clinical measures, suggesting that this method could be useful in monitoring adolescents at risk.
A novel MR angiography technique highly accurately identifies blockages in brain-supplying arteries and produces superior results compared to digital subtraction angiography (DSA) and multidetector computed tomography (CT) angiography.
A recent study using MRI found that 26% of vaginally delivered babies had small bleeds in and around the brain. The bleeds were likely caused by pressure on the skull during delivery. Most bleeds resolve over time without issues, but larger ones may cause problems later in childhood.
A possible association has been found between a popular MRI contrast agent and the incidence of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in patients with kidney disease. The study recommends avoiding gadodiamide in patients with any degree of renal disease due to the vast majority of NSF cases being associated with its use.
A study found that viewing prior mammograms alongside current mammograms significantly improves radiologist performance and reduces unnecessary recalls. The use of prior mammograms recorded on film in comparison with digital mammograms poses a challenge, but limiting their availability may balance medical benefits with effort.
A study of 44 patients with pulmonary embolism from illicit silicone injection found high fatality rates and severe complications. Transsexual males were disproportionately affected, highlighting the need for increased awareness and medical checks.
A new minimally invasive approach to partial breast irradiation offers an additional treatment option for women with early-stage breast cancer. The procedure uses ultrasound to guide balloon catheter placement, reducing the risk of damaging healthy tissue and allowing for a shorter treatment regime.
A new study finds that hypnosis can significantly reduce pain and anxiety during breast biopsy procedures, while also shortening procedure time and cost. Women who received self-hypnotic relaxation coaching reported improved coping tools for future waits and work-ups.
Researchers found milk to be an effective alternative to the costly oral contrast agent VoLumen in gastrointestinal imaging exams. Milk was shown to produce similar bowel distension and enhancement without causing more abdominal discomfort than VoLumen, making it a viable option for patients.
Researchers found that smoking cessation led to normalized brain metabolite concentrations, with decreased NAA levels in the anterior cingulate cortex correlating with smoking history. Choline and creatine levels were also affected, suggesting a link between smoking and neuronal dysfunction.
Researchers used diffusion tensor imaging to track water molecule movement in brains of chronic back pain patients and healthy controls. Chronic back pain was associated with more directed diffusion in pain-processing regions, suggesting complex brain organization and hyperactivity.
A new project delivers mobile digital mammography services to remote reservations, transmitting images via satellite for real-time interpretation. The initiative aims to improve breast cancer screening and care for rural American Indian women, who face high mortality rates.
A new study reveals that embolization, a minimally invasive treatment for varicoceles, significantly improves sperm motility and count in infertile men. Six months after treatment, 26% of couples achieved a pregnancy, with high sperm motility before the procedure being the key predictor of success.
A new study using fMRI found that strong brands elicit stronger activity in the brain, activating areas involved in positive emotional processing and self-identification. Weak brands, on the other hand, showed higher levels of activation in working memory and negative emotional response.
A new study found that adolescents playing violent video games exhibited increased emotional arousal and decreased executive function compared to those playing nonviolent games. The researchers used fMRI scans to measure brain activity during tasks requiring concentration and emotional processing.
A recent study using MRI found that older marathon runners have a higher left ventricular mass, indicating cardiovascular disease despite no symptoms or known history of heart issues. This suggests that pre-training screening for advanced-age runners may not be effective in detecting early life-threatening cardiovascular disease.
Researchers used MRI to show that a 90-degree sitting position causes more strain on the spine than an optimal 135-degree posture. This finding could help prevent back pain by advising patients to correct their sitting posture.
A new study found that rote learning can improve memory in seniors after an intensive period of memorization followed by a six-week rest. The volunteers exhibited improved memory performance, correlated with metabolic changes in the brain.
Researchers found a decrease in blood circulation in some areas of the brain and verbal memory performance among low-dose ecstasy users compared to non-users. The study suggests that even small amounts of ecstasy may cause subtle changes in brain structure and function.
A team of radiologists used CT scans to re-examine the mummy of King Tutankhamun, estimating his age at death between 18-20 years old. The findings suggest a premortem fracture to the femoral bone, potentially caused by an open wound that became infected and fatal.
A new ultrasound technique, elasticity imaging, has been found to correctly identify both cancerous and harmless breast lesions in nearly all cases. By gauging tissue movement, the non-invasive method can detect how soft or stiff an object is, reducing the need for invasive biopsies.
Researchers have developed a remote-control mechanism for controlling an MRI machine via the internet, resulting in superior image quality compared to traditional onsite scanning. This technology enables specialized skills in MRI to be implemented remotely, improving patient care and accessibility.
A study published in Radiology found that virtual colonoscopy is an accurate screening method for colorectal cancer. The procedure was shown to be safer, faster, less costly, more convenient, and just as effective as optical colonoscopy in detecting polyps and cancers.
A mathematic formula has been developed to predict a woman's risk of osteoporotic fracture, accurately identifying 75% of fractures two years after initial measurements were taken. The equation takes into account various risk factors beyond bone mineral density, allowing physicians to tailor treatment strategies to prevent fractures.
A new analysis technique identifies cellular damage in the brain, allowing for earlier diagnosis and intervention of Alzheimer's disease. The study found increased water content in white-matter areas and brain atrophy in patients with mild cognitive impairment.
A recent study of medical audit data found that community mammography screening results surpassed performance recommendations nationwide. The study, which analyzed over 1.1 million women's screening exams, revealed a cancer detection rate of 4.8 per 1,000 women.
A study found widespread damage to normal-appearing brain tissue in patients with multiple sclerosis, affecting large fractions of white and gray matter. This damage plays a larger role in disease progression than visible lesions.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) identifies critical brain regions prior to surgery, leading to more effective tumor removal and reduced surgical time. In 49% of cases, surgeons altered their treatment plans after fMRI findings, with no reported neurological deficits.
A study found that obesity significantly impacts diagnostic imaging quality and diagnosis, leading to misdiagnosis or failed diagnoses. The impact is particularly pronounced on exams requiring radiation exposure, such as CT scans and x-rays.
A study found that carotid stenting significantly reduced depressive symptoms in patients with carotid stenosis. The procedure restored blood flow to the brain, alleviating symptoms of vascular depression.
A new study used 'diffusion tensor' MRI to track brain development in infants with and without perinatal hypoxic ischemia. The results showed distinct fiber patterns in the brains of affected infants, which often persisted into later childhood and correlated with motor problems.
Researchers developed a new imaging technique using stress first-pass perfusion MRI with delayed contrast-enhancement, demonstrating an accuracy of 88 percent in detecting coronary artery disease. The non-invasive method can potentially replace traditional angiography and guide clinical decision-making.
The study found altered functionality in both the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, suggesting a breakdown in communication between these regions. This may lead to new diagnostic and preventive strategies for detecting early AD.
Researchers developed a new MRI technique using hyperpolarized helium to detect early signs of emphysema in asymptomatic smokers. The technology shows promise for early disease detection, surgical planning, and monitoring patient response to treatments without radiation exposure.
Using MR spectroscopy improves the detection of malignant breast lesions, reducing the need for biopsy procedures. The technology helps identify tumors with elevated choline compounds, which are a marker of an active tumor, and eliminates the need for biopsies to determine their composition.
Researchers used terahertz light to examine excised breast tissue and determine if removed margins were clear of cancer, with promising results. This technology has the potential to eliminate the need for multiple surgeries and tissue samples.
A study found that ultrasound identified all cancers, while mammography detected 90% of tumors in pregnant women. Imaging helped diagnose and treat cancer in pregnancy without harm to the fetus.