Dual-energy CT of the lung - Pearls and Pitfalls

Dual-energy CT imaging is a technique that extends the capabilities of CT beyond that of established densitometric. CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) performed with dual-energy technique benefits from both the availability of low kVp CT data and also the concurrent ability to quantify iodine enhancement in the lung parenchyma. Parenchymal enhancement, presented as pulmonary perfused blood volume maps may be considered as a surrogate of pulmonary perfusion. Dual-energy CT has the advantages of MDCT and can provide functional information for patients with PE. Recognizing various causes of  artefactual perfusion defects associated with DECT is necessary for appropriate and accurate interpretation of the results of this increasingly important imaging tool.