Computed tomography in the evaluation of cystic fibrosis lung disease

Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2005 Nov 15;172(10):1246-52. doi: 10.1164/rccm.200503-401PP. Epub 2005 Aug 11.

Abstract

The first report of computed tomography (CT) scanning to monitor cystic fibrosis (CF)-related lung disease was published in 1986. Further publications followed, but in general there was little interest in this technique until recently. Two factors in particular have led to this increased interest. First is an increasing realization that pulmonary function tests, long the mainstay of CF evaluation, often underestimate the presence and severity of mild and moderate lung disease. Second is the need for more sensitive outcome measures to assess new therapies. This had led to new interest and a series of important publications. The goal of this article is to present the current status of CT scanning in CF.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cystic Fibrosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Lung / diagnostic imaging*
  • Respiratory Function Tests
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed* / methods