Onkológia 6/2021

Manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 in imaging methods in oncological patient

Many oncological patients have been negatively impacted during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) pandemic. Many of these patients may be immunosuppressed and of older age. Additionally, cancer follow-up or imaging appointments have been delayed in many clinics. Studies on COVID-19 in patients with cancer indicate that this population is at risk for more severe illness. Certain features of SARSCoV- 2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2) detected by lung, brain, and gastrointestinal imaging may confound radiologists and clinical interpretation of cancer diagnosis, staging, and treatment response. In this article we want to focus on the manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 in imaging methods in the group of oncological patients, we also marginally address possible changes in functional imaging in relation to mass vaccination against COVID-19. We want to focus on the interpretation of examinations in terms of some imaging modalities, such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MR) and positron emission tomography with CT (PET/CT).

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, imaging methods, oncological patients, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography with CT, ultrasound