Photon-counting CT angiography in a child with patent ductus arteriosus: a case report

Background Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a common congenital cardiovascular abnormality characterized by persistent communication between the descending thoracic aorta and the pulmonary artery after birth. Accurate visualization of ductal anatomy is important for diagnosis and treatment planning in children with congenital heart disease. Photon-counting CT (PCCT) is an emerging detector technology that provides improved spatial resolution and reduced electronic noise compared with conventional CT systems. Case We report the case of a 10-year-old girl who underwent CT angiography after a cardiac murmur was detected during routine examination. Photon-counting CT angiography demonstrated abnormal vascular communication between the descending thoracic aorta and the proximal left pulmonary artery, consistent with patent ductus arteriosus. Multiplanar reconstruction clearly depicted the morphology of the ductus arteriosus with a minimal diameter of 3.6-mm and a length of 8.6-mm. Three-dimensional volume-rendered images further illustrated the anatomical relationship between the aorta and the proximal left pulmonary artery. Conclusion Photon-counting CT angiography provides high-resolution visualization of patent ductus arteriosus and may serve as a useful complementary imaging modality for evaluating congenital cardiovascular abnormalities in pediatric patients.