Aortic dimensions by multi-detector computed tomography vs. echocardiography.

Objective: Clinical follow-up of aortic dimensions is performed interchangeably by multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) and by cardiac echocardiography (ECHO). This study assesses the relationship between measurements of the aortic diameter by MDCT and ECHO at various predetermined locations using several methods.

Methods: The aortic diameter was measured at 6 locations between the aortic annulus and the aortic arch in 49 patients who underwent both MDCT and ECHO.

Lipoid pneumonia: a preventable complication.

Background: Lipoid pneumonia is a pneumonitis resulting from the aspiration of lipids, and is commonly associated with the use of mineral oil as a laxative. LP is relatively unfamiliar to clinicians and is probably underdiagnosed.

Objectives: To increase physicians' awareness of LP, its diagnosis and prevention.