Carlo Nicola de Cecco MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

1) To describe the basic principles of DECT imaging. 2) To explain how post-processing is practised. 3) To discuss radiation exposure issues. 4) To critically appraise the strengths and weaknesses of the technique in oncologic imaging. 5) To comment on the contribution of DECT imaging in oncologic patients management.

Dual Energy CT (DECT) is an innovative imaging technique, whose basic principle is the application of two distinct energy settings making able to distinguish materials with different molecular composition on the basis of their attenuation profiles and thus operating a transition from density based image to spectral imaging. DECT applications are based on two distinct capabilities: 1) material differentiation, which means achieving material-specific imaging with separation of distinct materials, for example iodine, calcium, and uric acid, within an image obtained during a single examination and 2) material identification and quantification, which means accurate assessment of the presence and amount of iodine within a target lesion. In particular, with DECT acquisition multiple data-sets such as elemental decomposition analysis, iodinated density map, monochromatic images or virtual unenhanced images can be obtained simultaneously making the Radiologist able to address different diagnostic problems and improving lesion detection and characterization. These technical characteristics make DECT an innovative imaging modality particularly useful in oncologic imaging, having clear advantages in tumor detection, lesion characterization, evaluation of response to therapy, and detection of oncologic-related disease. In conclusion, DECT represents an innovative imaging technique, which can significantly impact on the management of oncologic patients.

de Cecco, C, New Insights on Dual Energy CT in Oncology.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/13011412.html