The place of high resolution computed tomography imaging in the investigation of interstitial lung disease.

The place of high resolution computed tomography imaging in the investigation of interstitial lung disease. Expert Rev Respir Med. 2018 Dec 05;: Authors: Jeny F, Brillet PY, Kim YW, Freynet O, Nunes H, Valeyre D Abstract INTRODUCTION: High resolution computed tomography (HRCT) has revolutionized the diagnosis, prognosis, and in some cases the prediction of therapeutic response in interstitial lung disease (ILD). HRCT represents an essential second step to a patient's clinical history, before considering any other investigation, including lung biopsy. Areas covered: This review describes the current place of HRCT in the diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring of ILD. It also lists some perspectives for the near future. Expert commentary: Since the 1980s, HRCT and its interpretation have improved, the diagnosis value of patterns, and the integration of bio-clinical elements to HRCT have been better standardized. The inter-observer agreement has been investigated, allowing a better use of some limits in the interpretation of various signs. It not only takes into account one particular predominant sign, but the combination of patterns and the distribution of findings. Thanks to HRCT, the range of diagnoses and their probability are more accurately identified. The contribution of HRCT has been optimized during the multidisciplinary discussion that a difficult diagnosis calls for. HRCT quantification of the extent of diffuse lung disease becom...
Source: Expert Review of Respiratory Medicine - Category: Respiratory Medicine Tags: Expert Rev Respir Med Source Type: research