Table 2.

Key principles and recommendations for imaging of SARS-CoV-2-exposed NHPs^a

Topic	Key principles and recommendations
Modality	CXR: low sensitivity and reader dependence limits utility of CXR in a mild-to-moderate infection model LUS: high sensitivity, visibility of centrally located lesions is limited due to aeration, which limits its use in a mild-to-moderate infection model
	CT: recommended modality for detection of pulmonary abnormalities in SARS-CoV-2-exposed NHPs
	PET-CT: provides limited additional value for detection of lung abnormalities compared with CT (with 18F-FDG), high value for functional characterization and quantification of LNs
Frequency and time	Obtain baseline image before infection
	Minimal imaging frequency after infection, one image in first 4 days post-exposure, one on day 5–10, and one on day 11–15.
	Imaging frequency can be reduced but not stopped at 14 days post-exposure
Analysis method	Qualitative evaluation of extent, distribution, type, and evolution of abnormality by expert readers is sufficient for general conclusion
	Quantitative analysis is preferred, preferably in automated and user-independent manner. In general, quantification of percentage of lung involvement, independent of type of abnormality, has been useful
Lung abnormality	Appearance of lung lesions should be correlated with gross pathology score but not necessarily RT-PCR values obtained from upper or lower respiratory tract sampling
	Other experimental procedures in lungs (e.g., BAL) can influence appearance of lung lesions during both imaging and necropsy

^aAbbreviations: LN, lymph node; LUS, lung ultrasound.