Dual-energy computed tomography: new standard in diagnosing gout

Kovalenko V.M.¹, Gnylorybov A.M.², Bilyavska Yu.V.¹, Bogatyrova O.V.³

• ¹State University «National Scientific Center «Institute of Cardiology, Clinical and Regenerative Medicine named after Academician M.D.Strazheska» National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
• ²National Institute of Cardiovascular Surgery named after M.M. Amosov National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
• ³Department of Biomedical Disciplines of Donetsk National Medical University, Kropyvnytskyi

Summary. The article is devoted to a new method for diagnosing gout — dual-energy computed tomography (DECT). This innovative method significantly improves the accuracy of detecting urate crystals, which is a key factor in diagnosing gout. DECT uses two different energy levels to obtain images, allowing clear differentiation of urates from other tissues and deposits, particularly calcium crystals. Methods. The article analyzes the place and role of DECT in current recommendations for the diagnosis and monitoring of gout patients. The use of DECT avoids invasive procedures such as joint puncture and provides faster and more accurate diagnostic conclusions. The principles underlying the visualization of uric acid crystals are described, contributing to improved diagnostics in cases of unclear clinical manifestations of gout. The article also reviews clinical research results confirming the efficacy and reliability of DECT in diagnosing gout, as well as the economic aspects and disadvantages of the method. Results. The method demonstrates high sensitivity and specificity, making it the preferred choice in complex diagnostic cases. Economic aspects of DECT usage are also analyzed, including equipment and procedure costs. In conclusion, the authors emphasize that the introduction of DECT into clinical practice can significantly reduce the need for invasive procedures, increase diagnostic efficiency and accuracy, and possibly improve disease prognosis.