COVID-19: A Review of Imaging Manifestations and the Current Role of Radiology

Abstract

Imaging must be utilized judiciously for the management of coronavirus disease 2019, to minimize the inadvertent risk of transmission of the virus. Currently, known imaging manifestations encompass a broad spectrum of nonspecific findings which radiologists must recognize. Chest radiography has a lower sensitivity compared to computed tomography (CT), but can be a quick and inexpensive tool to establish a baseline in patients with moderate to severe disease. CT must be limited to selected patients with other justified indications. The radiology community must continue to share knowledge and direct research to further define the role of imaging in containing this pandemic.