Hyperdensity of recent hemorrhage at body computed tomography: incidence and morphologic variation

Journal Article · Thu Sep 01 00:00:00 EDT 1983 · Radiology; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1148/radiology.148.3.6878700· OSTI ID:6600372

Wolverson, M K; Crepps, L F; Sundaram, M; Heiberg, E; Vas, W G; Shields, J B

Body computed tomographic (CT) scans were reviewed in 73 patients with hematomas of recent onset. The incidence, extent, and morphologic variation of regions of hyperdensity on precontrast scans were assessed. Of the 73 hematomas 55 (75%) exhibited regions of localized or diffuse hyperdensity. Only one of the 80 (1.25%) control lesions showed relative hyperdensity that could not be explained by obvious calcification, bone fragments, or diminished density of the organ of origin. Predominant hyperdensity throughout the lesion was present in 35 (48%) of the hematomas and l6 (22%) of these were homogenous in texture. Hyperdensity at CT was due to the high hemoglobin content of retracted clot or sedimented blood. The various patterns seen can be related to sequential changes occurring in blood following hemorrhage. Relative hyperdensity and its variations seen on precontrast scans are useful diagnostic signs of recent hemorrhage.

• Research Organization: St. Louis Medical Center, MO
• OSTI ID: 6600372
• Journal Information: Radiology; (United States), Vol. 148:3
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

62 RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE
59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
ABDOMEN
COMPUTERIZED TOMOGRAPHY
CHEST
HEMORRHAGE
DIAGNOSIS
MORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES
DENSITY
HEMATOMAS
PATIENTS
WHOLE-BODY IRRADIATION
BODY
BODY AREAS
DIAGNOSTIC TECHNIQUES
EXTERNAL IRRADIATION
IRRADIATION
PATHOLOGICAL CHANGES
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
SYMPTOMS
TOMOGRAPHY
550602* - Medicine- External Radiation in Diagnostics- (1980-)
550800 - Morphology