User:Serotonin and the Dopamines/sandbox

Lead

Ground-glass opacity (GGO) is an abnormal finding seen on chest X-ray or Computed Tomography (CT) imaging of the lungs. It is typically defined as an area of hazy opacification (x-ray) or increased attenuation (CT) due to air displacement by fluid, airway collapse, fibrosis, or a neoplastic process. Common causes include infections, interstitial lung disease, and pulmonary edema.

Definition

-- I will add this section to the beginning to better define what is meant by GGO when used as radiologic finding.

Differential Diagnoses

-- There are already some differentials listed here. However, I plan to list out in a bulleted format, organized under subheadings with respect to etiologies (infectious, autoimmune, neoplastic, chronic diseases, etc).

Mechanism

-- This section will include a description of the different occurrences at the tissue level that lead to GGOs (e.g. atelectasis, infiltration, edema, etc.). Will also discuss focal (i.e. nodules) and diffuse patterns of GGOs here.

Diagnostic approach

-- Unsure if I will include this section. Since GGOs are seen on both chest X-rays and CT, I may discuss the differences in appearance between these two modalities. This may also take the form of "further workup" including additional imaging or tests based on the presumed etiology.

Clinical Significance

-- Here I will further explain the specific GGO findings relating to diseases or syndromes of greater interest (e.g. pneumonias, COVID-19, sarcoidosis, neoplastic causes, etc.). I will have a particular focus on findings in COVID-19 given its current relevance and the plethora of new information regarding the GGOs found in the imaging of these patients.

History

-- Brief discussion of where the term originated and its evolution since inception.

Additional Images

-- Will include additional images of GGOs due to a variety of etiologies, as available