Exames de imagem como método complementar para o diagnóstico da COVID-19: revisão integrativa de literatura

Abstract

Objective: To analyze changes observed in imaging exams as a complementary investigation method in the COVID-19 diagnostic process. Materials and methods: Integrative literature review carried out through bibliographic survey in the MEDLINE, Scielo and national and international journals related to the area of interest through the descriptors: “Coronavirus Infections”, “diagnosis”, “diagnostic imaging” and “radiology”. Results: Publications were identified in the two scientific databases and in the three analyzed journals, where articles that were related to the thematic area related to health and the diagnostic conditions of the new coronavirus were selected. The sample consisted of 8 articles. Chest radiography can detect several irregular areas of ground-glass opacities or consolidations. Thus, the central role of imaging studies in the early detection and management of COVID-19 pulmonary manifestations was observed, in addition to findings suggestive of the disease. Conclusion: Tomographic findings are not predictors of clinical evolution or solely responsible for the diagnosis of this disease, but when associated with RT-PCR exams, they allow early diagnosis and treatment, preventing delayed patient isolation.