Dual-energy CT captures subtle pancreatic masses

August 1, 2008 Diagnostic Imaging. Dual-energy CT captures subtle pancreatic masses -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Increased speed and improved visualization help pinpoint lesions at earlier, more treatable stage Faster and better visualization are the main reasons to use dual-energy CT for the assessment of pancreatic masses, according to a presentation at the Stanford International Symposium on Multidetector-Row CT in Las Vegas. Dr. Anno Graser, currently a fellow in the radiology department at New York University Medical Center, outlined the main advantages dual-energy CT provides: immediate visualization of mass enhancement; visualization of subtle enhancement differences; ability to calculate virtual unenhanced images; and ability to assess vascular anatomy and involvement. Graser offered a brief explanation of how each of these elements can help pinpoint early-stage masses. Color coding of the images, for example, draws immediate attention to the areas of mass enhancement. Dual-energy CT clarifies subtle enhancement differences between masses and the normal body of pancreas, based on differences in attenuation.

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