AJNR. American journal of neuroradiology
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AJNR Am J Neuroradiol · Dec 2011
ReviewPseudoprogression and pseudoresponse: imaging challenges in the assessment of posttreatment glioma.
The current standard of care for newly diagnosed cases of high-grade glioma is surgical resection followed by RT with concurrent chemotherapy. The most widely used criteria for assessing treatment response are based on a 2D measurement of the enhancing area on MR imaging known as the Macdonald Criteria. Recently, nontumoral increases (pseudoprogression) and decreases (pseudoresponse) in enhancement have been found, and these can confuse outcome evaluation. Here we review pseudoprogression and pseudoresponse and describe how better understanding of these phenomena can aid interpretation.
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Clopidogrel is an inhibitor of platelet aggregation, indicated for the prevention of ischemic stroke and in-stent thrombosis. However, it has a number of drawbacks, including an increased risk of hemorrhage; a clinical effect that is slow in onset and irreversible; a genetically determined variability in its clinical potency; and interactions with other commonly administered drugs.
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A brief review of the Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS) is presented highlighting the program's legislative history, eligibility requirements and incentive payment plan. Specifically, PQRS measures applicable to neuroradiology practice are discussed. Several steps are suggested for individual physicians or group practices to start participation in the program. Resources are also provided for further information on the program requirements and PQRS measures.
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AJNR Am J Neuroradiol · Nov 2011
ReviewFluid-attenuated inversion recovery vascular hyperintensities: an important imaging marker for cerebrovascular disease.
Vascular hyperintensities have been noted on FLAIR sequences obtained in the setting of acute stroke and intracranial steno-occlusive disease. The presence of FVHs likely represents disordered blood flow, often from collaterals distal to arterial occlusion or stenosis. As opposed to other vessel signs seen in arterial insufficiency, FVH is unique in that it does not represent thrombus, but rather sluggish or disordered blood flow through vessels. This review will discuss the diagnostic and prognostic value of FVH and its impact on clinical decision-making.