PURPOSE/AIM: Our goals are, beyond theory of PCT many times described, to review the main patterns resulting from PCT processing and to show the way to interpret them. We will also discuss the "green-red" penumbra/infarct maps, output of our analysis software; show the related potential pitfalls and the influence of various parameters on the result.
CONTENT ORGANIZATION: Cases will be presented in a quiz format: 1) Classic cases of PCT: a) MCA, ACA and PCA acute ischemia. b) Pitfalls resulting from other conditions such as CIA stenosis, luxury perfusion and older infarct. 2) Other conditions with currently little evidence, but useful to keep in mind in order to avoid misreading of the PCT maps. 3) Through all the cases, emphasize will be given on the automatic rendered penumbra/infarct maps and their use and limitations in acute ischemia interpretation.
SUMMARY: PCT in acute stroke has now entered common practice in emergency imaging. If the analysis of MTT, CBF, CBV maps is often easy with clear patterns, some external conditions may however complicate their interpretation. By reviewing classic and less classic -but not infrequent- cases, we wanted to help radiologists to solve the majority of cases they will face in their daily practice, and to clearly depict what they can now expect from automatic rendered penumbra/infarct maps.