Our experience with radiological methods and characteristics of radiological findings in COVID-19: Part two: Radiological findings in COVID-19

Abstract

One year after the first reported case of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the pandemic is still active. Considering non-specific clinical manifestations, tests' insufficient sensitivity, and restricted availability of PCR testing, radiological methods are often used for making a preliminary diagnosis. Additionally, chest X-rays and computerized tomography (CT) help discover previously existing cardiopulmonary conditions, follow the disease progression in moderately and severely ill patients, and detect complications. On a CT scan, we can see four stages of pneumonia: early (initial), progressive, peak, and resolution (absorption) phase. Considering that various imaging studies are being used among large populations of different ages and the necessity of repeated imaging in moderately and severely ill patients, special focus must be paid on lowering the radiation dose while maintaining optimal image quality.

Keywords

• covid-19 pneumonia
• radiological methods
• computerized tomography
• chest x-ray