Abstract
Unenhanced brain computed tomography (CT) is inexpensive, easily available, and the
first-choice imaging modality for patients presenting with various neurologic symptoms.
Venous thrombosis is not rare in childhood, but diagnosis can be difficult. In some
cases, only denser vessels can be used to highlight an issue. The aim of this study
was to retrospectively evaluate the relationship between X-ray attenuation and hemoconcentration
in a pediatric population. This study enrolled 99 pediatric patients who had been
referred radiology department for unenhanced brain CT. Images were retrospectively
evaluated for measurement of dural sinus densities from four distinct dural sinus
locations. Correlation between mean Hounsfield unit (HU) values and hemoglobin/hematocrit
(Hb/Htc) levels, as well as age and gender were further analyzed. There was a strong
correlation between mean HU and Hb levels (r = 0.411; standard deviation: 0.001) and also between mean HU and Htc levels (r = 0.393; p < 0.001). According to the results of this study, the mean sinus density and H:H
(HU:Htc) values were 44.06 HU and 1.19, respectively, in a normal pediatric group.
In conclusion, before deciding between a diagnosis of thrombosis and a determination
of normal findings during an evaluation of unenhanced CT in a pediatric population,
radiologists should consider complete blood count results as well as H:H ratios.
Keywords
computed tomography - density - dural sinus - Hounsfield unit - venous thrombosis
