Latest Articles
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
Background: Sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) is the most common congenital tumor in infants, with early diagnosis and accurate preoperative characterization being crucial for optimal management. Imaging modalities, particularly X-ray and ultrasonography (USG), play a key role in identifying tumor features and guiding surgical planning. This study aimed to correlate imaging findings with histopathological outcomes in infants and toddlers with SCT. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Department of Radiology and Imaging, Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from December 2020 to March 2025. A total of 40 infants and toddlers with SCT who underwent surgical excision were included consecutively. X-ray and USG evaluations were performed preoperatively, assessing features such as soft tissue mass, calcifications, cystic and solid components, mixed echogenicity and vascularity. Histopathology was considered the gold standard, classifying tumors as mature or immature. Imaging findings were correlated with histopathological diagnosis. Results: Among the 40 patients, 55% were aged 6–12 months and 65% were female. Histopathology revealed 38 (95%) mature and 2 (5%) immature teratomas. X-ray showed a soft tissue mass in 75% of cases, calcifications in 30% and bony involvement in 10%. USG demonstrated cystic components in 70%, solid components in 40%, mixed echogenicity in 35%, calcifications in 25% and vascularity in 15%. Imaging correctly identified 38 mature tumors as benign, while 2 were immature tumors. Conclusion: Conventional X-ray and USG demonstrate high concordance with histopathology and effectively identify mature SCTs, while highlighting features suggestive of immaturity. These modalities remain valuable tools for preoperative assessment, especially in resource-limited settings.
ABSTRACT
Abstract: Neuronal migration disorders (NMDs) are congenital brain malformations caused by disrupted neuronal development and often lead to epilepsy and other neurological deficits. These conditions are rare, occurring in approximately one in every 2,500 live births. Early detection through prenatal and neonatal imaging is crucial for prompt genetic counselling, testing, and neurosurgical intervention. In Ghana, limited access to advanced medical imaging services such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography complicates the diagnosis of NMD. This medical imaging case report describes a 39-year-old Ghanaian woman with a 24-year history of epilepsy. Although the patient had a CT scan 15 years before the current hospital visit, a definitive diagnosis was not achieved until now through MRI. The MRI findings revealed a hypoplastic cerebellum, heterotopia, lissencephaly, expansion of the fourth ventricle, and a dilated cisterna magna, in keeping with NMD. The discussion focuses on the diagnostic capabilities of ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in identifying congenital brain malformations. It emphasises their respective advantages and limitations, while also highlighting the urgent need to enhance neuroimaging accessibility and to develop specialised radiological training programs in Ghana. The case underscores the paramount importance of MRI in accurately delineating cerebral anatomy and offers valuable insights into the detection and management of neuronal migration disorders.
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
This observational study evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in detecting meniscal injuries of the knee joint. A total of 40 patients presenting with knee-related symptoms—such as pain, swelling, stiffness, or mechanical locking—were included. Both inpatients (IPD) and outpatients (OPD) were examined between March and June 2025 at a tertiary care radiology center. MRI scans were performed using a dedicated knee coil, incorporating standard sequences such as T1-weighted, T2-weighted, Proton Density (PD) with fat saturation, STIR (Short Tau Inversion Recovery), and Gradient Echo (GRE). These imaging protocols enabled detailed evaluation of meniscal morphology, detection of degenerative signal changes, and precise localization of anterior and posterior horn tears in both the medial and lateral menisci. Findings confirm that MRI offers superior soft tissue contrast, enabling the early and accurate diagnosis of meniscal tears. Its non-invasive nature and diagnostic precision make MRI a crucial tool in clinical decision-making and treatment planning, particularly in cases of sports injuries or trauma.
ABSTRACT
The VACTERL association refers to a collection of congenital anomalies that typically affect the vertebral column (V), anus (A), cardiovascular system (C), tracheoesophageal structures (TE), renal and urinary tract (R), and limbs (L). The diagnosis is considered when a patient has defects in at least three of these systems. This multisystem disorder can be life-threatening if not identified and managed early. Prompt and thorough evaluation is crucial to reduce long-term complications and morbidity. Here, we describe the case of a neonate born from a twin pregnancy at 38 weeks’ gestation, with antenatal findings of severe polyhydramnios and a single umbilical artery and vein. This report focuses on the imaging characteristics of congenital cardiac, skeletal, and tracheoesophageal abnormalities in this infant.
ABSTRACT
Hematopoiesis refers to the generation and maturation of blood cells. In adults, this process predominantly takes place within the bone marrow of long bones, vertebrae, and ribs. During fetal development, however, hematopoiesis primarily occurs in the yolk sac, liver, and spleen. When hematopoiesis shifts from the bone marrow to other sites in the body, it is termed extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH). This phenomenon often arises in individuals with hematologic disorders such as thalassemia and sickle cell anemia, where normal bone marrow function is impaired. Here, we describe a case of a young adult male with beta-thalassemia who presented with complaints of shortness of breath and palpitations persisting for one month. This report highlights the imaging features of extramedullary hematopoiesis identified in this patient.
ABSTRACT
Thoracopagus twins, a rare and complex form of conjoined twins joined at the thorax, present significant challenges and medical considerations. This abstract reviews the ultrasound imaging findings of thoracopagus twins at 27 weeks of gestation, focusing on prenatal diagnosis and potential clinical implications. Detailed ultrasound examinations reveal shared thoracic structures, including the heart and major blood vessels, as well as individual variations in organ development. Understanding these imaging findings aids in prenatal counselling, delivery planning, and postnatal care coordination, emphasizing the multidisciplinary approach necessary for optimal maternal and fetal outcomes.
ABSTRACT
Hydatid disease, caused by the Echinococcus species, commonly affects the liver and lungs. Muscular involvement is rare, accounting for less than 5% of cases due to factors such as muscle contractility and lactic acid content that make it an unfavourable environment for the parasite. Intramuscular hydatid cysts are often misdiagnosed due to their rarity and nonspecific presentation. In this study we report a rare case of a 64 year-old male patient presenting with a slowly enlarging, painless swelling in the antero-lateral aspect of thigh region. Imaging studies including ultrasound and MRI revealed a cystic lesion with features suggestive of a hydatid cyst. Serological testing supported the diagnosis. The patient underwent surgical excision of the cyst with care to avoid spillage, followed by antiparasitic therapy with albendazole. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis.