Radiographic and CT Features of Viral Pneumonia. A brief overview with emphasis on coronavirus

Abstract

Viruses are the most common causes of respiratory infection, and causative agents of lower respiratory tract infections that vary according to patient age and immunity. The imaging findings of viral pneumonia are diverse and overlap with those of other non-viral infections and inflammatory conditions. Computed tomographic findings of viral pneumonia are diverse and may be affected by the immune status of the host and the underlying pathophysiology of the viral pathogen. Coinfection with bacteria is common, and identification of the underlying viral pathogens may not always be easy. There are a number of indicators for identifying viral pathogens on the basis of imaging patterns. While not all cases manifest with typical patterns, most viral pneumonia patterns exhibit similarity on the basis of the virus family. Even though a definite diagnosis cannot be achieved on the basis of imaging
features alone, recognition of viral pneumonia patterns may aid in differentiating viral pathogens. The objective of this review was to describe differential imaging diagnoses of pathogens in early stages of the infection based on the imaging patterns of pneumonia and suggest the possible prognosis. Early diagnosis of pneumonia as viral, using tests such as radiologic studies and blood or serology tests, would reduce unnecessary use of antibiotics and may improve the clinical course. Moreover, rapid diagnosis can lead to early control of potential transmission, thus decreasing overall treatment costs.