过敏性肺炎的CT诊断

目的:探讨过敏性肺炎的CT表现。方法:10例经穿刺活检证实的过敏性肺炎,使用Elscint CT twin和Siemenssensation cardiac扫描。结果:过敏性肺炎与吸入抗原物质有关;胸部CT检查可发现肺内散在斑片状结节和磨玻璃样病变。结论:过敏性肺炎具有特征性的CT表现,结合病史有助于诊断该病。     

Chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis: high-resolution CT and radiographic features in 16 patients.

To evaluate the manifestations of chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis at radiography and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), findings in 16 patients with this disease were reviewed. To ensure objectivity, 50 patients with other chronic infiltrative lung diseases (fibrosing alveolitis [n = 29], sarcoidosis [n = 16], and miscellaneous conditions [n = 5]) were included. All patients had chronic disease with evidence of fibrosis at HRCT, as indicated by irregular linear areas and architectural distortion. Radiographs and HRCT scans were reviewed separately, in random order, and without knowledge of diagnosis. On radiographs and HRCT scans, the fibrosis in cases of hypersensitivity pneumonitis was situated predominantly in the middle lung zones or showed no zonal predominance. Lung apices and bases were relatively spared in all cases. The distribution of fibrosis in the transverse plane was random in seven cases, subpleural in six, and peri-bronchovascular in three. The distribution of fibrosis can allow distinction of chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis from other causes of fibrosis in many cases.     

Chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis: CT features comparison with pathologic evidence of fibrosis and survival

PURPOSE: To retrospectively compare in patients with chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) the computed tomographic (CT) imaging features suggestive of fibrosis with pathologic evidence of fibrosis at surgical lung biopsy and to compare a usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) pattern at CT with survival. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Institutional review board approval and informed consent were obtained for this study, which was HIPAA compliant. Twenty-six patients (15 women, 11 men; age range, 37-76 years) with chronic HP had their surgical lung biopsy results reviewed by two pathologists for the presence of fibrosis. Two radiologists systematically reviewed the CT scans. The two radiologists were blinded to all clinical information, including pathologic diagnosis, patient information, and outcomes. The combination of a subpleural reticular pattern and lower zone predominance was considered a UIP pattern. CT findings were compared with the histopathologic presence of fibrosis, physiologic parameters, symptoms, and survival. The chi(2) or Fisher exact test (each two-tailed) was used to compare nominal and ordinal variables. A t test (with unequal variances) was used to compare continuous variables. The log-rank procedure was used to compare Kaplan-Meier survival curves. RESULTS: Fifteen patients had fibrotic HP at biopsy, and 11 had nonfibrotic HP. Patients with fibrotic HP had more extensive reticular pattern and were more likely to have traction bronchiectasis, honeycombing, and a UIP pattern than those with nonfibrotic HP (P = .015, P = .007, P = .007, respectively). Although the presence of histologic fibrosis was associated with decreased survival (P = .003), the CT features were not associated with decreased survival. CONCLUSION: CT findings of extensive reticular pattern, traction bronchiectasis, and honeycombing are closely related to the presence of histologic fibrosis in chronic HP.     

Summer-type hypersensitivity pneumonitis: comparison of high-resolution CT and plain radiographic findings.

Summer-type hypersensitivity pneumonitis is an immunologic disease that occurs only in Japan. It is a form of hypersensitivity pneumonitis in which the clinical symptoms appear in the summer and subside spontaneously in mid autumn. The purpose of our study was to determine the CT findings in this condition, to compare the CT findings with those on chest radiographs, and to assess the variations in the CT findings over time. Accordingly, high-resolution CT scans and chest radiographs of 15 patients with summer-type hypersensitivity pneumonitis were retrospectively studied. Seven patients had sequential CT examinations 18-37 days apart. The CT scans and chest radiographs were reviewed by two observers independently. CT findings included diffuse micronodules (n = 15), slightly elevated lung density (n = 13), and patchy air-space consolidation (n = 13). In one patient, the findings on a chest radiograph were normal, while CT showed parenchymal abnormalities. In two cases, follow-up CT showed micronodular abnormalities after findings on the chest radiograph had returned to normal. Our results show that high-resolution CT findings of summer-type hypersensitivity pneumonitis include pulmonary micronodules, increased lung density, and air-space consolidation. High-resolution CT appears to be more useful than plain chest radiographs in the evaluation of pulmonary parenchymal abnormalities in this condition.     

亚急性或慢性过敏性肺泡炎的高分辨率CT影像特征

目的：分析亚急性或慢性过敏性肺泡炎高分辨率 CT(HRCT)的影像特征，以期进一步提高其HRCT诊断的准确性。方法：21例亚急性或慢性过敏性肺泡炎患者行肺功能、支气管肺泡灌洗、经支气管镜肺活检、胸部X线平片和HRCT.结果：HRCT图像上16例表现出数量不等的边界模糊的小叶中心结节，13例可见磨玻璃样密度，4例有密度减低区，5例显示局限性的空气残留（airtrapping）并形成“马赛克”样灌注，2例出现散在的小叶中心性气肿、2例发生肺纤维化。结论；HRCT可以清晰显示过敏性肺泡炎病变的类型及分布。HRCT图像上表现为弥漫性边界模糊的小叶中心性结节或小叶中心结节与磨玻璃样祺及密度减低区同时存在时，应考虑亚急性或慢性过敏性肺泡炎的诊断。     

Automated computer-based CT stratification as a predictor of outcome in hypersensitivity pneumonitis

Background

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) has a variable clinical course. Modelling of quantitative CALIPER-derived CT data can identify distinct disease phenotypes. Mortality prediction using CALIPER analysis was compared to the interstitial lung disease gender, age, physiology (ILD-GAP) outcome model.

Methods

CALIPER CT analysis of parenchymal patterns in 98 consecutive HP patients was compared to visual CT scoring by two radiologists. Functional indices including forced vital capacity (FVC) and diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLco) in univariate and multivariate Cox mortality models. Automated stratification of CALIPER scores was evaluated against outcome models.

Results

Univariate predictors of mortality included visual and CALIPER CT fibrotic patterns, and all functional indices. Multivariate analyses identified only two independent predictors of mortality: CALIPER reticular pattern (p?=?0.001) and DLco (p?<?0.0001).Automated stratification distinguished three distinct HP groups (log-rank test p?<?0.0001). Substitution of automated stratified groups for FVC and DLco in the ILD-GAP model demonstrated no loss of model strength (C-Index?=?0.73 for both models). Model strength improved when automated stratified groups were combined with the ILD-GAP model (C-Index?=?0.77).

Conclusions

CALIPER-derived variables are the strongest CT predictors of mortality in HP. Automated CT stratification is equivalent to functional indices in the ILD-GAP model for predicting outcome in HP.

Key Points

? Computer CT analysis better predicts mortality than visual CT analysis in HP.? Quantitative CT analysis is equivalent to functional indices for prognostication in HP.? Prognostication using the ILD-GAP model improves when combined with quantitative CT analysis.

     

Lung cysts in subacute hypersensitivity pneumonitis

PURPOSE: To determine the frequency of cystic lesions on high-resolution computed tomography (CT) in patients with subacute hypersensitivity pneumonitis. METHODS: High-resolution CT scans in 182 patients with proven subacute hypersensitivity pneumonitis were retrospectively evaluated for the presence of lung cysts. Patients with CT evidence of emphysema or interstitial fibrosis and patients with connective tissue disease were excluded from the study. Two thoracic radiologists reviewed the thoracic CT scans for the presence and location of lung cysts. RESULTS: Thin-walled lung cysts were identified in 24 (13%) of 182 patients and ranged in size from 3 to 25 mm in maximal diameter. The patients included 16 men and 8 women (age range, 30-79 years; mean age, 48 years). The cysts ranged from 1 to 15 in number (mean, 4 cysts) and had a random distribution. Sixteen of the 24 patients also had areas of decreased attenuation and vascularity consistent with air trapping. CONCLUSIONS: Thin-walled cysts can be seen in a small percentage of patients with subacute hypersensitivity pneumonitis. The cysts resemble those seen in lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia, and their pathogenesis is uncertain.     

Chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis: high resolution computed tomography patterns and pulmonary function indices as prognostic determinants

Objectives

To investigate high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and pulmonary function indices (PFTs) for determining prognosis in patients with chronic fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (CHP).

Methods

Case records, PFTs (FEV₁, FVC and DLco) and HRCTs of ninety-two patients with chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis were evaluated. HRCT studies were scored by two observers for total disease extent, ground-glass opacification, fine and coarse reticulation, microcystic and macrocystic honeycombing, centrilobular emphysema and consolidation. Traction bronchiectasis within each pattern was graded. Using Cox proportional hazards regression models the prognostic strength of individual HRCT patterns and pulmonary function test variables were determined.

Results

There were forty two deaths during the study period. Increasing severity of traction bronchiectasis was the strongest predictor of mortality (HR 1.10, P?P?=?0.02, 95%CI 1.00-1.03), microcystic honeycombing (HR 1.09, P?=?0.019, 95%CI 1.01-1.17) and macrocystic honeycombing (HR 1.06, P?<?0.01, 95%CI 1.01-1.10) were also independent predictors of mortality. In contrast, no individual PFT variable was predictive of mortality once HRCT patterns were accounted for.

Conclusion

HRCT patterns, in particular, severity of traction bronchiectasis and extent of honeycombing are superior to pulmonary function tests for predicting mortality in patients with CHP.

Key Points

? HRCT is increasingly used to assess chronic fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis. ? HRCT patterns are superior to pulmonary function tests for predicting mortality. ? Extensive traction bronchiectasis strongly predicts poor survival in chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis.     

Unusual case of diagnosis of pigeon breeder's hypersensitivity pneumonitis with ventilation-perfusion lung scan

The authors describe a patient thought to have pulmonary embolism. Results of a perfusion scan were normal, but Tc-99m DTPA aerosol ventilation lung scan showed, in successive views, decreased activity of the deposited aerosol. The lung Tc-99m DTPA clearance was measured and was markedly increased. This suggested possible hypersensitivity pneumonitis, which was later confirmed as pigeon breeder's disease. The decreased activity observed on the DTPA ventilation scan must be directed toward increased lung clearance and its measurement.     

高分辨力CT与肺功能指标判断慢性过敏性肺炎的预后

摘要目的探讨高分辨力CT(HRCT)和肺功能指标(PFT)确定慢性纤维化过敏性肺炎(CHP)病人预后情况。材料与方法应用PFT(FEV1、FVC和DLco)与HRCT对92例慢性过敏性肺炎病人的病例记录进行评估。HRCT结果由两名观察者对病变范围、毛玻璃样改变、细和粗网格状改变、微囊和大囊状的蜂窝样改变、小叶肺气肿和肺实变进行评分。对每种病变引起的支气管扩张进行分级。     

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis: evaluation with CT

Thirteen chest radiographs and computed tomographic (CT) scans obtained from 11 patients with hypersensitivity pneumonitis were reviewed. The CT findings were correlated with open lung biopsy findings in seven patients. The two patients with acute hypersensitivity pneumonitis showed air-space opacification on CT scans. An open lung biopsy, done in one of these patients, demonstrated noncaseating granulomas and filling of the air spaces with macrophages. The nine patients with subacute hypersensitivity pneumonitis showed small, rounded opacities and patchy air-space opacification on CT scans. These findings reflected the histologic findings, which consisted of interstitial pneumonitis, cellular bronchiolitis, and small, noncaseating granulomas. The six patients with symptoms for 12 months or longer also showed irregular linear opacities on CT scans, corresponding to areas of fibrosis. CT scans were superior to radiographs in helping to assess the type and extent of abnormalities, and high-resolution CT scans were superior to conventional CT scans.     

Chronic pneumonitis of infancy

European Radiology - Chronic pneumonitis of infancy (CPI) is a very rare lung disease in infants and young children. We report a 33-day-old infant with CPI, focusing on the radiologic aspects of...     

Chronic pneumonitis of infancy

Chronic pneumonitis of infancy (CPI) is a very rare lung disease in infants and young children. We report a 33-day-old infant with CPI, focusing on the radiologic aspects of the disease. Chest radiographs showed variable and non-specific appearances including ground-glass shadowing, consolidation, volume loss, and hyperinflation. Dense alveolar opacities progressed as CPI advanced. The radiologic features of our case reflected pathologic changes.     

Gallium-67 lung uptake in extrinsic hypersensitivity pneumonitis

Diffuse lung uptake of gallium-67 citrate was observed in a child with subsequently proven extrinsic hypersensitivity pneumonitis secondary to exposure to bird droppings.     

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis: sensitivity of high-resolution CT in a population-based study.

OBJECTIVE. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis refers to a group of pulmonary disorders caused by inhalation of organic or inorganic particulates by sensitized persons. The diagnosis relies on a constellation of findings: exposure to an offending antigen, characteristic signs and symptoms, abnormal chest findings on physical examination, and abnormalities on pulmonary function tests and radiographic evaluation. In population-based studies, the sensitivity of chest radiography for detection of this disease is relatively low. The aim of this study was to determine the sensitivity of high-resolution CT (HRCT) for detection of hypersensitivity pneumonitis diagnosed in a population of swimming-pool employees. SUBJECTS AND METHODS. Thirty-one symptomatic employees of a recreation center who were referred because of possible hypersensitivity pneumonitis were examined by using chest radiography, HRCT, and fiberoptic bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage and transbronchial biopsy. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis was diagnosed in subjects who had two or more work-related signs or symptoms, abnormal results on transbronchial biopsies, and abnormal lymphocytosis as shown by examination of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. The chest radiographs and HRCT scans were interpreted by consensus by two observers who were unaware of the clinical diagnosis. RESULTS. Only one of 11 subjects with a diagnosis of hypersensitivity pneumonitis had abnormal findings on a chest radiograph. Five had abnormal HRCT findings. The abnormality in each case consisted of small, poorly defined centrilobular nodules with variable profusion. No subject without the disease had abnormal HRCT findings. Those who had granulomas shown by lung biopsy were more likely to have abnormal HRCT findings than were those who had more subtle histologic abnormalities. CONCLUSION. The sensitivity of HRCT for the detection of hypersensitivity pneumonitis in a population-based study is greater than that of chest radiography. The finding of poorly defined centrilobular nodules on HRCT scans should prompt consideration of this disease.     

Chronic lung diseases: specific diagnosis by using CT

We evaluated patterns of abnormal lung parenchyma on CT scans in six specific chronic lung diseases and then applied those findings in the differential diagnosis of these lung parenchymal patterns in 56 subjects. There were 48 patients with chronic lung diseases (43 with histologic proof) consisting of usual interstitial pneumonia (n = 20), sarcoidosis (n = 16), lymphangitic carcinomatosis (n = 7), lymphangioleiomyomatosis (n = 2), drug toxicity (n = 2), and eosinophilic granuloma (n = 1). Including eight CT scans of normal control subjects, 56 CT scans were assessed independently by two readers (R1 and R2). Chest radiographs, most of which were obtained within 1 week of CT examination, were available in 48 of the 56 subjects. CT scans were evaluated for specific parenchymal features including disease distribution, lung distortion, thickening of bronchovascular bundles and polygon walls, bronchiectasis, cysts, and nodules, to determine the association of each abnormal feature with the different diseases. Diagnosis was then made from the overall CT appearance of the lungs and, on a separate occasion, from the appearance of the chest radiograph. The correct diagnosis was made from the CT appearance in 54 of 56 patients (R1) and in 50 of 56 patients (R2). Correct diagnoses were made from the chest radiographs in 42 of 48 patients (R1) and 43 of 48 patients (R2). We have identified features that are reproducible and useful when describing CT scans of patients with chronic lung diseases. Interpretation of the appearance of the lung on CT scans was accurate in diagnosing usual interstitial pneumonia, sarcoidosis, and lymphangitic carcinomatosis.     

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis: patterns on high-resolution CT

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis, also known as extrinsic allergic alveolitis, is caused by inhalation of specific environmental organic antigens. This disease may have typical high-resolution CT findings that, in the appropriate clinical setting, can be sufficiently characteristic to allow a confident diagnosis without the need for a lung biopsy. In this pictorial essay, the high-resolution CT patterns of hypersensitivity pneumonitis are illustrated. The authors emphasize the correlation among the radiologic presentation, functional abnormalities, and pathologic findings.