Single-kV multi-contrast x-ray imaging for gout detection and gout-pseudogout differentiation

Gout is the most prevalent inflammatory arthritis found in men. A prompt diagnosis and early treatment of gout are crucial in preventing eventual functional impairment and reduction in comorbidities. In this work, the quantitative material information provided by a multi-contrast x-ray (MCXR) imaging acquisition is leveraged to develop a rapid, non-invasive, and low dose diagnostic method for gout detection and gout-pseudogout differentiation. This work establishes a theoretical foundation to demonstrate how a single-kV MCXR acquisition is capable of differentiating gout from pseudogout via a projection domain two-material decomposition. Experimental results from a benchtop MCXR system are presented. The imaging performance of the proposed MCXR technique is compared to dual-energy radiography to further validate the method.