Semi-quantitative CT imaging in improving visualization of faint ground glass opacities seen in early/mild coronavirus (covid-19) cases

Background Chest CT is an essential and simple diagnostic method for early detection of pulmonary changes in COVID-19 patients. Semi-quantitative technique depending on both visual and color coded images helps to improve the early detection of COVID-19 chest affection and thus help to control spread of infection. Results From first of May to July 15, 2020, 30 patients in Cairo, Egypt who have positive RT-PCR tests and positive pulmonary manifestation were included in our study, 26 patients (86.6%) with faint ground glass opacities were detected by both visual and color coded images, while in 4 patients (13.3%) were only visualized by color coded images and confirmed by CT density assessment. Conclusion The combined use of visual and color coded images enhance and improve the early detection of faint ground glass opacities seen in early COVID-19 affection.