Healthcare heroes around the world are focused on the most effective way to identify patients with COVID-19, to find an effective treatment, and ultimately a vaccine. Currently, many physicians and scientists are focused on not only the effectiveness of the blood test but also what role CT may have in identifying the virus.
The availability and accuracy of test kits for the virus have been widely discussed. The false-negative rates currently range from 60% – 97%, so patients with COVID-19 may have lung abnormalities on CT, but an initial negative blood test.
Identifying the virus using CT is also a challenge. The American College of Radiology (ACR) recommends that CT should not be used to screen for, or as a first-line test to diagnose COVID – 19 patients. Recent data demonstrates up to 50% of patients with COVID-19 infection may have a normal CT, especially within the first four days after onset of flulike symptoms. The findings on chest imaging related to COVID-19 are not specific and overlap with other infections. A normal CT does not mean a person does not have the virus. For more information please refer to the May issue of Radiology Today
As a radiology professional on the front line of this horrible disease, the role you play is vital to the continuing discovery of the best diagnostic and therapeutic treatments. We at Get Your CEU honor your dedication and contribution and we would like to do our part. To acknowledge your importance in this battle against COVID – 19, we are offering an additional 10% discount (coupon code STAYSAFE) on all our already discounted courses. https://www.getyourceu.com/radiology-ce-courses/
Please stay safe and thank you for all you’re doing in these very unusual times.
Cheryl
