[Extra-cardiac findings on coronary computed Tomography scanning].

BACKGROUND

Multi-detector-row computed tomography (MDCT) has emerged as method for non-invasive imaging of the heart.

AIM: To investigate the frequency of the non cardiac findings in cardiac imaging with MDCT.

METHODS

A total of 191 patients underwent cardiac imaging with 64-slice MDCT over a period of 8 months. The detected abnormalities were classified in major (implying an immediate workup and treatment or at least a further investigation) and minor abnormalities.

RESULTS

Extra cardiac abnormalities were detected on 69 examinations (36 %). Major abnormalities were found in 17 % of the patients, and the minor abnormalities in 25,6 %. The scan revealed 4 cases of lung carcinomas, all at a still surgical stage.

CONCLUSION

There were a significant number of non cardiac findings in cardiac MDCT. To avoid missing clinically important findings, we should carefully evaluate all the organs included in the scan.