Lung morphology-perfusion correlation on perfusion SPECT-CT fusion images in two cases of septic pulmonary embolism.

Septic pulmonary embolism (SPE) is a critical disorder which requires fast diagnosis for treatment, while SPE continues to pose a diagnostic challenge in radiologic imaging. We describe detailed findings on breath-hold perfusion SPECT-CT fusion images in 2 patients with SPE. Regardless of absence or nonspecific morphologic abnormality in these patients, the fusion images showed multiple wedge-shaped segmental/subsegmental perfusion defects along specific pulmonary arteries, highly suggesting embolic event. Follow-up fusion images after treatment showed changes in lung perfusion defects and morphology. Assessment of lung morphology-perfusion correlation on reliable fusion images contributes to correct diagnosis of SPE and monitoring of treatment effect.

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