Evaluating the Use of Perfusion-Only Q-SPECT as a Diagnostic Tool for CTEPH in Low-Resource Environments: A Study on Minimizing Unnecessary Referrals to Specialized Centers - Takeaways - MDSpire

Evaluating the Use of Perfusion-Only Q-SPECT as a Diagnostic Tool for CTEPH in Low-Resource Environments: A Study on Minimizing Unnecessary Referrals to Specialized Centers

  • By

  • Seckin Bilgic

  • Ilgim Vardaloglu

  • Irem Koroglu

  • Emre Karayel

  • January 27, 2026

  • 0 min

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  • 1

    CTEPH is a rare but treatable cause of pulmonary hypertension, often diagnosed late due to referral limitations and subtle symptoms.

  • 2

    Perfusion-only Q-SPECT can serve as a practical diagnostic tool in low-resource settings, providing a reliable rule-out method for CTEPH.

  • 3

    The study evaluated 42 patients with suspected CTEPH using Q-SPECT, aiming to optimize referral decisions and reduce unnecessary transfers.

  • 4

    A normal perfusion scan has a high negative predictive value, making Q-SPECT effective in excluding CTEPH and directing patients to appropriate care.

  • 5

    The study highlights the importance of accessible diagnostic tools like Q-SPECT in improving timely diagnosis and treatment of CTEPH.

Original Source(s)

Evaluating the Use of Perfusion-Only Q-SPECT as a Diagnostic Tool for CTEPH in Low-Resource Environments: A Study on Minimizing Unnecessary Referrals to Specialized Centers

  • by Seckin Bilgic, Ilgim Vardaloglu, Irem Koroglu, Emre Karayel

  • January 27, 2026

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