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COMPUTER ANALYSIS OF PLANAR GAMMA CAMERA IMAGES
Citation:
Martonen, T B. AND J. D. Schroeter. COMPUTER ANALYSIS OF PLANAR GAMMA CAMERA IMAGES. Presented at Sixth US-Japan Symp. on Aerosol Delivery Systems, Maui, Hawaii, Dec. 16-21, 2001.
Description:
COMPUTER ANALYSIS OF PLANAR GAMMA CAMERA IMAGES
T Martonen1 and J Schroeter2
1Experimental Toxicology Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. EPA, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711 USA and 2Curriculum in Toxicology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 USA
The potential adverse health effects of inhaled particulate matter (PM) could be better evaluated with more comprehensive measurements of their spatial distribution patterns within lungs. The most common technique for quantifying PM deposition is with planar gamma scintigraphy. However, the interpretation of the resulting images can be quite subjective. To address this problem we have developed an anatomically accurate description of the respiratory system. The 3D computer simulations are designed to serve as templates which, when overlaid on scintigraphy images, will assist in their interpretation. To analyze scans, the 3D simulations are superimposed on the outlined central (C), intermediate (I), and peripheral (P) regions. The computer models are used to tabulate airways by type and number. Results indicate that the C region, commonly assumed in clinical practice to be composed of large tracheobronchial airways, actually consists mostly of alveolated airways. Specifically, it was found that alveolated airways comprise over 99% of the total number, over 95% of the total surface area, and over 80% of the total volume. The new computer imaging model will lead to improved risk assessment protocols for inhaled PM. Disclaimer: This is an abstract of a proposed presentation and does not necessarily reflect EPA policy.