Strategies for X-ray utilization in the evaluation of knee injuries

Knee injuries are prevalent among young athletes, and an accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Knee pain is a widespread issue among adolescent athletes. About 50% of athletes experience knee pain every year, and an estimated 2.5 million sports-related knee injuries occur annually in young athletes. The study discusses common knee injuries, including fractures, cartilage damage, patellar injuries, and meniscus tears. It highlights the Ottawa knee rules (OKRs) as a valuable clinical decision tool for guiding the necessity of knee X-rays, emphasizing their high sensitivity and potential cost savings. Prevention strategies for youth athletes, such as injury prevention programs and neuromuscular training, are also discussed. Additionally, the review underscores the importance of radiation exposure and patient safety when utilizing diagnostic imaging, emphasizing adherence to radiation safety principles and the ALARA principle. In conclusion, this review emphasizes multifaceted role of X-rays in diagnosing knee injuries and importance of evidence-based decision rules, prevention strategies, and radiation safety in adolescent knee healthcare.

The role of MRI in assessing cognitive impairment changes

Aging brings about various changes in the brain, leading to cognitive alterations that are increasingly relevant with extended life expectancy. Dementia, characterized by chronic cognitive impairment, is on the rise due to longer life expectancy, imposing a substantial burden on healthcare systems. Dementia encompasses conditions like Alzheimer's disease (AD), vascular dementia (VaD), Lewy body dementia (LBD), and frontotemporal dementia, each with its distinct symptoms and progression. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), especially 3T MRI, plays a crucial role in monitoring and diagnosing dementia, aiding in patient selection for emerging therapies. Study involves a comprehensive literature search without restrictions on date, language, age/publication type. Dementia can be divided into neurodegenerative and nondegenerative categories, with AD being the most prevalent. Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation, supported by neuroimaging techniques like MRI. Various MRI findings, such as cerebral atrophy, microbleeds, white matter hyperintensities, lacunes, and strategic infarcts, offer insights into dementia-related brain changes. These findings facilitate early diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring, with standardized assessment tools and volumetric analysis enhancing diagnostic accuracy. As life expectancy continues to rise, MRI's role in assessing cognitive impairment changes becomes increasingly vital in addressing the growing challenge of dementia.

The use of low-dose computed tomography for lung cancer screening

Around the globe, lung cancer is among the most prevalent cancers, accounting for significant morbidity and mortality. Compared to breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers combined, lung cancer is the leading cause of mortality. Higher survival rates are achieved with an early lung cancer diagnosis. The aggressiveness and heterogeneity of lung cancer have impeded endeavours to use screening to lower mortality from the disease. Due to studies showing that low-dose computed tomography may identify many tumors in their early stages, the development of low-dose computed tomography has significantly changed the landscape of lung cancer screening. Long-term research studies have demonstrated that low-dose computed tomography for the secondary prevention of lung cancer considerably lowers lung cancer mortality in high-risk populations. Screening with low-dose computed tomography reduces the mortality associated with it by 20-30%. Low-dose computed tomography is a fast and simple chest exam that does not involve the use of a contrast agent. Based on the current recommendations, eligible individuals with a history of heavy smoking will benefit from yearly low-dose computed tomography, but because of the risks involved, such as false-positive results, radiation exposure, and overdiagnosis, joint decision-making consultation is necessary. The purpose of this research is to review the use of low-dose computed tomography for lung cancer screening.